October 2008
Lenora Thom conducts the Asheville Choral Society’s Ecce Cor Meum. page 19
Fast Frame’s Maggie Graham rescues animals and creates paintings of pets. page 39
Jewelry designer Susan Marie talks about her move to Biltmore Avenue. page 33
Diana McEwen-Martin in Asheville Lyric Opera’s production of Romeo & Juliette. page 5
Vol. 12 No. 2
R A P I D R I V E R A R T S
ART Talk Print Released by John Mac Kah
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lackBird Frame & Art announces by John Horrocks that it will host local artist and teacher John Mac Kah to celebrate follow a visit to the the release of his newest giclee city tailgate market print, “Cold Mountain, October”. nearby. Visitors are One of the area’s finest invited for music, naturalist painters, John Mac Kah is wellcoffee and snacks, known for his inspired and craftsman-like plus a chance to meet depictions of the region. “Cold Mountain, this outstanding artist October”, an edition and enjoy his work limited to 50 copies, on Saturday mornis printed on archiing, October 11th val canvas, a fullfrom 10 am until size reproduction noon at BlackBird’s of his original 30” x new location. The 40” oil on linen. shop is in Lexington In conjunction Station just south with the print reof downtown, 159 lease, BlackBird will South Lexington offer special framing Avenue, around the options for this and corner from the Orother of the artist’s ange Peel. BlackBird prints, and will Frame & Art is an donate a portion of “Cold Mountain, October” 30" x 40" independent framer print and framing giclee print on canvas, from the and art gallery owned sales to Wild South. original oil on linen by John Mac Kah. and operated by Pat Since the early and John Horrocks. 1990’s, this AsheThey have shared their framing business ville-based organization and its predecesfor 17 years, the last 6 in Asheville. Blacksors have been a vital and important force Bird features expert framing and showin the protection and restoration of native cases local art & home accessories. ecosystems throughout the Southeast. BlackBird is extremely pleased to be Asheville’s source for John Mac Kah’s landscape prints. They represent an afMeet the Artist at Blackbird Frame & fordable way to own a very fine art reproArt. Casual reception with live music and duction, individually signed and carefully food, Saturday, October 11, from 10 a.m. made under the artist’s supervision. And, to noon. it is a welcome opportunity to team with BlackBird Frame & Art, an artist in support of an organization as 159 South Lexington Ave., in Asheville. worthy as Wild South. Saturday Morning at BlackBird is Call (828) 252-4144 or visit blackbirda great way to start your weekend or to frame.com for more information.
If you go
Mysteries of the Spirit World
T Advertise with Rapid River Magazine
(828) 646-0071
Free web links • Free ad design • Easy monthly billing October 2008
— Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — Vol. 12, No. 2
he F.W. Front Gallery at Woolworth Walk will feature the works of local artists Brenda Marks and Gail Gulick in the show “Mysteries of the Spirit World” from October 10 to November 5, 2008. Brenda Marks, mixed media artist, creates haunted, stormy images using a digital collage format and often adds paint or encaustic methods to complete the piece. Gail Gulick, mixed media artist, specializes in
by
Megan Stone
creating archetypal spirit masks and rattles made from plaster, gauze, filler and natural objects. The opening reception will be held Sunday, October 12, from 2 to 4 p.m. Come meet the artists and enjoy the perfect show to welcome Halloween!
If you go FW Front Gallery at Woolworth Walk 25 Haywood Street, in Asheville. (828) 254-9234 Gallery Hours: Mon. through Thur. 11-6; Fri. and Sat. 11-7; Sun.11-5.
Asheville Choral Society Lenora Thom, Music Director Powerful voices. Remarkable music.
“ACS Sings Classical McCartney: The Benefit Concert” Ecce Cor Meum Behold My Heart ‘It’s about truth, and love, and honesty and kindness, and just stuff that I thought was important in life.’ Paul McCartney with Children’s Chorus and Orchestra
Anne O’Byrne, soprano October 12, 2008 at 4:00 pm Diana Wortham Theatre Downtown Asheville
Anne O’Byrne Soprano
$100 “Sir Paul Section” Special Reserved Seating, Concert and Celebration Reception $75 Concert and Celebration Reception (828) 232-2060
Lenora Thom Music Director
ashevillechoralsociety.org
Rapid River
Message from the Publisher This month our cover, upon first glance, has a dark touch to it. You might think “Not surprising with the stock market dropping 777 points in one day, gas shortages, the rising cost of living, the uncertainty of a better tomorrow, etc., etc.” However, this cover is not a reflection of those events, rather it is a story about going home before it gets dark; before the coming storm. Over the past few Dennis Ray, publisher, and son Harrison Graham Ray. years our October covers have been quite dark and perhaps even sinister — the headless horseman throwing his carved pumpkin head, and a monster emerging from a haunted house, have both been featured. These were the stories from my childhood that magically came to life when the leaves changed and the days grew gray. These were the books and movies and sometimes even television shows that captured my imagination during the late 1970s. Beyond that, these covers offer just simple reflections. This year I wanted to tell a story (the illustrated story not the actual cover story) about a creature that came to Earth to gather information about intelligent life on this planet. What would it take back if it could only take back one item? It wouldn’t be interested in our primitive technology since it just traveled across the universe, perhaps at the speed of light, or through wormholes, or whatever. It could grab a book. But what book? What book would describe the human condition? I doubt, even with a huge brain, it would have time to read all of them. So in the end, I figured it simply returned home with a piece of art. After all, I feel art is the lifeblood of everything. You would have a hard time, if not an impossible time, judging a culture without judging that culture’s art. Until next month grab a piece of art and enjoy.
~ Dennis Ray, Publisher Rapid River Magazine
Peter Loewer
Printmaker
Graphos=Studio
ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE Established in 1997 • Volume Twelve, Number Two Distributed at over 390 locations throughout eight counties in WNC and South Carolina Publisher/Editor: Dennis Ray Managing Editor: Beth Gossett Art Director: Dennis Ray Print Production: Simone Bouyer Marketing: Dennis Ray Staff Photographer: Dennis Ray Accounting: Sharon Cole Distribution: Dennis Ray
Contributing Writers
H. Byron Ballard, Sierra Bicking, Ramesh Bjonnes, Jenny Bunn, Beth Carter, James Cassara, John Clark, Thomas Rain Crowe, Amy Downs, John Ellis, Steven Forbes-deSoule, Kay Gordon, Beth Gossett, Heidi Gruner, Phil Hawkins, Pam J. Hecht, John Horrocks, Patricia James, Phil Juliano, RoseLynn Katz, Chip Kaufmann, Michelle Keenan, Ron Lambe, Peter Loewer, MariJo Moore, April Nance, Michael Parker, Jennifer Pickering, Dennis Ray, Riley Schilling, Erin Scholze, Megan Stone, Billie Sue Thompson, Rebecca Valero, Bill Walz, Joe Zinich.
INFO
Rapid River Art Magazine is a free monthly publication. Address correspondence to: info@rapidrivermagazine.com or write to: Rapid River Art Magazine, 85 N. Main St.., Canton, NC 28716. Phone: (828) 646-0071 www.rapidrivermagazine.com
PO Box 5039 ~ Asheville, NC 28813 email: Spicebush@mtnarea.net
®
All materials contained herein are owned and copyrighted by Rapid River Art Magazine and the individual contributors unless otherwise stated. Opinions expressed in this magazine do not necessarily correspond with the opinions of Rapid River Art Magazine or the advertisers found herein. © Rapid River Magazine, October 2008 Vol. 12 No. 2
October 2008 www.rapidrivermagazine.com
Inside 5 Cover Story
Asheville Lyric Opera . . . . 5
7 Music & Stage
S.E.L.L.O.U.T . . . 7 Jazzy Puppets . . . 7 Asheville Ballet . . . . . . 9 Asheville Symphony Chorus . . 13 The Duhks . . . . . . 17 Asheville Choral Society . . . 19 The 5 Browns . . . . . . 19 LEAF Festival . . . . . . 34
10 Art Blackbird Frame & Art . . . .
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16 Patton . . . . . . 10 Jonas Gerard . . 10 Weaverville Art Safari . . . . . . 21 Southern Highlands Craft Fair . . 35 Fast Frame . . . . 39
14 Asheville Shops Wooden Bracelets . . . . . . 14
Biltmore Coffee Traders . . . . . . 30 Susan Marie Designs . . . . . . 33
15 Columns Peter Loewer . . . . . .
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James Cassara . . . . . . 16 MariJo Moore . . . . . . 23
22 Books H. Byron Ballard . . . . . .
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Glenis Redmond . . . . . . 24
25 Movie Reviews 29 Wine Michael Parker . . . . . . 32 Beer Joe Zinich . . . . . .
29
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36 What to Do Guide™ Best in Show by Phil Juliano . . .
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Cover illustrated by Dennis Ray October 2008
— Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — Vol. 12, No. 2
Callie & Cats by Amy Downs . . . 37 Corgi Tales by Phil Hawkins . . 37
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COVER STORY
Romeo and Juliette to Draw a Broader Audience
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ust as conductors, singers and artistic directors add their personality to an opera performance, each opera house brings its own character and contribution to the stage. Diana Wortham Theatre in Asheville is no different. Some of the best performances happen in smaller venues, according to Peter Dallo who retired from Santa Fe, NM, to Hendersonville five years ago and has spent his life enjoying opera in the world’s finest venues. Dallo likens Diana Wortham to La Fenice in Venice, Italy, which he said “is a jewel of an opera house dating back over two hundred years and is relatively small” yet offers superior performances. “Diana Wortham is small and, therefore, even in the worst seat you are right on top of the action and you feel you are part of the crowd,” he said. “You’re not viewing it, you are participating.” Even though Dallo has watched performances in the grandeur and opulence of The Paris Opera House and been riveted by the organic backdrop of a New Mexico sunset at Santa Fe’s open air opera house, he sees something unique in Asheville, enough so that he chose to serve on Asheville Lyric Opera’s (ALO) board of directors. “It is a small company with a limited budget that doesn’t say, ‘We’re a small company with a limited budget,’” said Dallo. “Although we have a small budget and a limited audience we are going to go out and show we can be great. And that is the difference.”
First Time Opera Goers Asheville Lyric Opera will open their season with Gounod’s Romeo and Juliette on October 3 at 8:00 p.m., and October 4 at 4:00 p.m., in the Diana
by Beth Carter Wortham Theatre. “This is a great opera for anyone who has considered for Romeo and Juliette. attending a performance or Sandel came upon opera would like to try something accidently through a different for a Saturday summer job during her evening date,” said David freshman year at Webster Craig Starkey, General and University in St. Louis. Artistic Director for ALO. “I had never been to “Most people are already faopera or worked on an miliar with the story and the opera or even listened production is not on as grand to an opera until I was a scale as many operas. It is working at Opera Themore intimate. It is relatively Diana McEwen-Martin atre St. Louis,” she said short, lasting two and a half plays Juliette. by phone. “It was such a hours. And even though it new experience musicalwill be performed in its origily.” Even though Sandel nal French format, English supertitles will told her friends this was “just a summer make it easy for the audience to follow.” job” and felt opera was not for her, she Audiences will have an added bonus became hooked. “I fell in love without as four members of the Asheville Ballet meaning to. After it was done I realized, will perform in the opening act during in spite of myself, I wanted to do more.” the masked ball. Sandel enjoyed the scale of opera and “Asheville Ballet has been a supporter the number of people involved on stage. of ours since we began 10 years ago,” said In the case of 19th century composers, she Starkey. “Anne Dunn, the ballet’s artistic said, “I love the way their music portrays director, has choreographed a wonderful the emotion. Once you start living in that piece which adds a great deal to the setworld, you want to keep living in it.” ting of the first scene.” Starkey hopes to peak people’s interest that otherwise would not come to the opera. “Whether it is the familiarity of the story, the ballet, or a desire to try a new cultural experience, we hope to introduce opera to a broader audience in our community,” said Starkey. “Opera is not just for an elite group of people. Opera is for anyone who loves music.”
Scene from Romeo and Juliette.
As stage director for Romeo and Juliette, Sandel’s goal is to build the world the characters live in and work with the singers to create fuller characters instead of cardboard cutouts. “It is important that opera is theatre and it is telling a story and not just about singing,” said Sandel. “It is about the music and the story working together.”
The Players As is typical of Asheville Lyric Opera, the cast and staff of Romeo and Juliette will be filled with some of operas best young and up-and-coming talent. ‘Romeo & Juliet’ continued on pg. 21
Opera Finds Her Stage director Elise Sandel is from Oregon and she will be visiting Asheville for the first time when she arrives in midSeptember for several weeks of rehearsals
Vol. 12, No. 2 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — October 2008
October 2008
— Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — Vol. 12, No. 2
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Performance The North Carolina Banjo Clinic
S.E.L.L.O.U.T. A Black and White Comedy in the Grey Area
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NC Asheville’s Cultural and Special Events series will host “S.E.L.L.O.U.T.: A Black and White Comedy in the Grey Area.” Four noted Blackpack comics will take on racial and cultural differences one joke at a time. The word “sellout” may have a negative connotation, but these comedians reclaim it as an acronym for their show: Serious, Educated, Laughing, Learning, Outrageous, Unique and Talented. S.E.L.L.O.U.T. tour members Vince Morris, B.T., Billy D. Washington and Louis Johnson have been seen on HBO, Showtime, A&E, Comedy Central, BET, VH1 and MTV, challenging their audiences to edge deeper into intercultural conversations – and respect for each other – through comedy. Featuring the popular segment, “Ask a Black Man Anything You’ve Wanted to Know But Were Afraid to Ask,” their program will make audiences laugh out loud while celebrating their cultural differences. The show is co-sponsored by UNC
Asheville’s Multicultural Student Programs the Center for Diversity Education. For a complete listing of related events, click on www.unca.edu/culturalarts/blackpack.
Featuring two full days of Bluegrass Banjo instruction by Tom Adams, Terry Baucom, Mike Scott & Graham Sharp. Classes for All Levels will be offered on Friday and Saturday, November 14 and 15 in Burnsville, NC, just 30 minutes north of Asheville. 2-Day Clinic: Price is $275 class held from 9 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. each day. 1-Day Clinic: Price is $150 either day. Private lessons available both days. A $50 deposit per day is required and
refundable 10 days prior to the clinic. Lodging and dining within walking distance. Contact us for details. Also – a Saturday night concert will be held beginning at 7:30 p.m., and featuring Graham’s Band, the Steep Canyon Rangers. Concert fee for clinic participants is $12/ticket. For more information or to register, please contact Village Productions, (828) 682-2402. PO Box 816, Burnsville, NC 28714. Email: evie@transmtn.com.
If you go 8 p.m. Friday, October 17, at UNC Asheville’s Lipinsky Auditorium. General admission tickets are $21 or $5 for area students. The show’s content is appropriate for ages 17 and older. To reserve tickets call UNC Asheville’s Highsmith University Union Box Office at (828) 232-5000, or visit www.uncatickets.com.
“Jazzy Strings” Launch 2008-09 Puppet Season!
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he Asheville Puppetry Alliance is pleased to announce that the first performance in its 2008-09 Young Audiences Series will be Mountain Marionettes’ “Jazzy Strings,” an enchanting and toe-tapping journey through the uniquely American musical forms of the early 20th century. From Joplin to Gershwin, puppeteer Susan VandeWeghe’s colorful marionette characters will both perform and explain this rich musical history with wit and charm at the Diana Wortham Theater Saturday, October 18, 11 a.m. Each piece of Big Band, Dixieland and Ragtime music incorporated into the show seems to have been written just for the puppet that performs to it. Katrina flies on her trapeze to George Gershwin’s “Rhapsody in Blue;” a special Hula Dancer teams up with Spike Jones and his “Hawaiian War Chant;” June Bug is a hot jazzy baby who performs the Charleston; and Mr. Bones literally falls apart when he hears Scott Joplin’s Ragtime melodies. Mountain Marionettes is a professional puppet company specializing in the Art of the Marionette. Each production
consists of short vignettes performed in a vaudevillian style with short-strung trick marionettes, and the puppeteer in full view of the audience. The large 24" to 32" marionettes ensure that every seat is the best seat in the house. This fast-paced, family-friendly marionette production charms children and adults alike. If you are a mentor or limited income parent or grandparent residing in Buncombe County, visit the Asheville Area Arts Council website (www.ashevillearts. org) for forms to request free tickets through their KidsTix Program.
If you go Tickets for the October 18 performance are $8 for adults, $5 for children and seniors, and are available online at www. dwtheater.com and in person at the Diana Wortham Theater. Vol. 12, No. 2 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — October 2008
October 2008
— Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — Vol. 12, No. 2
R A P I D R I V E R A R T S
STAGE PREVIEW Ann Dunn: at the Helm of the Asheville Ballet and School of Dance
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he driving force by RoseLynn Katz behind the Asheville Ballet and the Asheto seventy one. Not all are ville Academy of Ballet women. The school also and Contemporary boasts a class for men and Dance is Ann Dunn, boys. a down-to-earth, yet remark“Young dancers are able woman who has been the typically all A students,” wearer of many hats in her Dunn muses. “Studying lifetime — principal ballerina, dance improves one’s menchoreographer of multiple tal condition and the ability famous stories, including The to be self-disciplined. “My Great Gatsby and Don Quixolder students dance as a ote, Distinguished Teacher rewarding way to exercise. in the Humanities at UNC It certainly beats the moAsheville, published poet, notony of working out on a composer, mother of five and treadmill. And they stay in grandmother of eight. shape forever.” Her hand is very much How has Dunn manat work during this season’s Lyle Laney as aged to do everything she’s the prince in The Asheville Ballet program which accomplished while raising Nutcracker. opened with Shakespeare in a large family at the same Ballet on September 26 and time? “I never had extra 27 at the Diana Wortham Theatre. The money for baby sitters, so my kids came choreography, featuring a tragic scene with me.” A playpen was set up at her between the aging King Lear with his dance classes. When she traveled away beautiful daughter, Cordelia, dramatic from home, her children came, too. Once character portrayals in motion of Lady she left the high school aged children’s Macbeth and Ophelia, as well as a love meals in the freezer, labeled for each day scene with Fernando and Miranda in The of the week, while her two younger ones Tempest, was done by Dunn herself and accompanied her to Daufuskie Island, Lyle Laney with live music by John Cobb off of Hilton Head, for a dance residency at the piano and members of The Ashewhere she showed Gullah speaking chilville Lyric Opera. dren how to create their own dance and Audiences anticipate the ever-popumusic, using instruments they made from lar Nutcracker Ballet on December 10 found objects. Unable to speak Gullah, - 14, an Asheville holiday tradition for she and her own children communicated thirty-five years. Billy the Kid, a muscular, with the others through movement and masculine ballet performed with Aaron gesture. A successful venture, she reCopland’s great composition of frontier members it with a smile. “I always like to America will follow on May 8 and 9. show my children many facets of life.” “My parents read to me since the She kept right on showing them durday I was born,” says Dunn, explaining ing vacations to such places as Ravenna her passion for fusing dance and fiction. and Venice in Italy where she took them “Fiction for me is all about characters,” to see great works of art. she adds. “I see who they are, their way of “That’s why I could never save being and then I put them on stage to see any money,” she laughs, “and why my what will happen.” children all had to get scholarships when Dunn trained with the legendary they went on to college.” George Balanchine, performed professionIt’s this same free-spirited, bohemian ally with the Hartford, Connecticut Ballet quality that shapes her dance. Experience and as the Principal Ballerina in Princeton, it for yourself at the Asheville Ballet’s New Jersey. She arrived in Asheville in upcoming performances for the 2008 1980, drawn by its beauty, climate and size. – 2009 season. By then a mother of three, Dunn felt that Asheville was big enough to work in yet small enough in which to raise a family. She began teaching dance in her Montford Nutcracker Ballet on December 10 - 14 at garage with four students and took off the Diana Wortham Theatre. from there. In 1996 the Fletcher School of Dance merged with the Asheville Academy Billy the Kid, May 8 and 9, 2009, at the Diana Wortham Theatre. of Ballet and Contemporary Dance. Currently Dunn has over one hunCall for tickets and information: (828) 258dred students, ranging in age from three 1028 or (828) 257-4530.
If you go
Vol. 12, No. 2 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — October 2008
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fine art Landscapes: Of Hope and Glory
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Q. What advice would you give Q. What inspires you to an artist just paint and how do you starting out? keep motivated? A. As an artist A. As far as being living in a high inspired, well it is all tech world, the around me. What a aesthetic cards creation! One of the of creativity are great things about workstacked against Linda Cheek on ing all that time as an us, but for me location. illustrator is I have been the catapult has sincerely trained and “Big Yellow Taxi,” oil on always been because of deadlines there is no time canvas panel. the practice Q. When did you first realize you wanted for just waiting for the mood to hit of painting on to be an artist? you. You must find the motivation. location for one to two hours as often as A. My mother and aunt were both artists possible. Just keep drawing and drawing, Q. Could you tell me more about your and interested in art, so I was encourthen paint, and looking and looking and work? aged early on, and Ringling School of Art looking again. “Love the art in yourself trained me. It has always been something A. Because of the process I use to paint and not yourself in art.” My Life in Art, I could not do with out. I guess, as my (plein air and alla prima), I feel I have the Stanislavski. sons say, I have always pushed a pencil best advantage for capturing what I am or brush, but I do love doing what I am after - light, shapes, color, value and comblessed to do. position. There is a very good reason to take your studio outside, it is much easier. Linda Cheek’s work can be seen in the Q. What other artists have influenced you As Winslow Homer said: “I prefer every exhibition, “Landscapes: Of Hope and and how? time a picture composed and painted Glory” opening October 4th and running A. Being primarily a landscape painter, outdoors. The thing is done without your through November 16th at 16 Patton. I’m drawn to some for technical reasons, knowing it.” and some others for just the pure emoQ. What is the best and worst part of betional power of the work. George Iness, 16 PATTON ing a full time working artist? John Singer Sargent, George Bellows are Fine Art Gallery more emotional and I think of N.C. WyA. The best part is I have complete free16 Patton Avenue, in Asheville eth, and Richard Schmid as more technidom and control over my art. The hardest (828) 236-2889 cally inspiring. Ken Auster sums this up thing for me is the business end. I would 16patton@bellsouth.net well, “Understanding intellectually, and much rather be out doors at my pochade www.16patton.com then painting passionately. This is the key box, painting. inda Cheek is a former illustrator who has been painting en plein air since moving to Marshall, N.C. in 1990. In her new exhibition at 16 Patton Gallery “Landscapes: Of Hope and Glory” in October, Linda has decided that she will concentrate her painterly efforts on images of place and on the mood of the timelessness of this region.
to successful painting.”
If you go
Painting the Soul of the Landscape
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ationally known abstract artist, Jonas Gerard, continues the development of his abstracted impressions of the majestic peaks surrounding Asheville with a new body of work. On Friday, October 3, 2008 Beyond Landscape will open at Jonas Gerard Fine Art in the River Arts District of Asheville, NC. An opening reception follows on Friday, October 10 from 5 to 7 p.m. The next day, Saturday, October 11, Gerard will be painting live in his studio adjoining the Gallery at 2 p.m. As a token of appreciation for the continued success of his Asheville Gallery, Jonas will be donating 20 percent of the sales that occur at the opening reception to Arts for Life. This organization brings art healing programs to children with serious illnesses in North Carolina hospitals. Going deeper in to the very soul of the land, his impressions can open the deepest senses and emotions. Without 10 October 2008
— Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — Vol. 12, No. 2
struggle Jonas transforms his powerful yet delicate abstract force through unusual compositions of trees, mountains and lakes. His freedom of expression creates movement that pulses in every colorful brush stroke. It’s a whole new approach to painting and often people get that strange feeling when they look at it…
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Rebecca Valero
That’s when it begins. When the painting touches someone’s heart beyond the visual there is a soul to soul communication. Connecting to the experience, one’s eyes and imagination cannot stop at just what is seen. You will then go beyond the landscape. The show runs from October 3 through November 7, and we hope you can join us for the opening festivities: Friday, October 10 from 5-7 p.m., opening reception with live music from Anything Goes; and Saturday, October 11 beginning at 2 p.m., Jonas paints live in his River Arts District studio.
If you go “Beyond Landscape” runs through November 7, 2008 at Jonas Gerard Fine Art, 240 Clingman Avenue, in Asheville. (828) 350-7711, www.jonasgerard.com
Vol. 12, No. 2 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — October 2008 11
12 October 2008
— Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — Vol. 12, No. 2
R A P I D R I V E R A R T S
Performance Asheville Symphony Chorus Sings B S T Vivaldi and Handel
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by
illie
ue hompson
f you have ever walked into Victoria’s Secret and heard Vivaldi’s Four Seasons gracing the background, you have been introduced to one of the most prolific composers of the Baroque period of classical music. How ironic that a composer who started out working in an all-girls music school should end up providing background music for today’s contemporary woman. But it would be my guess that Vivaldi, called the “Red Priest” (because of Dewitt Tipton his red locks), would probably be smiling. Vivaldi’s works are among today’s and esteemed abroad. favorite classical choices, and the Gloria is The Gloria was written sometime perhaps his best known composition folduring Vivaldi’s career at the Pieta, and lowing the Four Seasons. The Gloria will would have been performed by female be performed — along with perhaps the voices. In later centuries it was hardly perfavorite choral classical work of all time, formed until a revival by Alfredo Casella Handel’s Messiah — by the Asheville during “Vivaldi Week” in Siena (1939). Symphony Chorus, October 25, at Arden Since then it has become a favorite, espePresbyterian Church, 7:30 p.m. cially for holiday celebrations. The Asheville Symphony Chorus The second part of the program, of has a long history of performing choral course, is embraced by almost all singers. classics from every century. With a love Most professional vocalists perform Hanfor choral art, the chorus — founded by del’s Messiah literally hundreds of times Asheville’s own Dewitt Tipton — has in various venues. presented hundreds The beauty and inof rich musical treaspiration of Handel’s sures with the intent of This chorus sings work continues to be preserving them as well Baroque and classical so loved by all that it as introducing them to is considered a musinew lovers of classical music particularly well. cal treat to perform it music. When asked why every year. he chose Vivaldi for the Members of eighteenth season of the Symphony Chorus are excited to be performances by the Asheville Symphony performing Vivaldi and Handel. Joe SculChorus, conductor/director Tipton said, ley, chef/owner of the Corner Kitchen in “Vivaldi is loved by choral singers and Biltmore Village has a unique perspective concertgoers alike. I chose it because this on singing Vivaldi’s Gloria. He first sang chorus sings Baroque and classical music it in a high school choir as a tenor, and particularly well. And for myself, it is a now is singing it as a bass in the Asheville touching and beautiful piece.” Symphony Chorus. A member since 2004, Vivaldi, who was a virtuoso violinhe said, “To me there is such vitality and ist, composed hundreds of pieces. Many beauty in this piece that I am very excited of them were concertos and operas, but to be singing it.” his sacred music was a continuing stream Tenor Brandon Herder looks forthroughout his life, perhaps because he ward to singing Handel’s Messiah. Herdwas not only was a musician but also a er, who is the Science Chair at Christ priest. The Gloria was composed during School in Arden, recalls performing parts his years at the Pio Ospedale della Pietà of the Messiah with the Harvard Glee (Devout Hospital of Mercy) in Venice. Club while in graduate school: “There is There were four such institutions in such a rich and diverse musical narrative Venice; their purpose was to give shelter in this work that it evokes strong emotion and education to children who were abanin any chorister who has the opportunity doned, orphaned, or whose families could to sing it.” not support them. They were financed by funds provided by the Republic. The boys learned a trade and had to leave at age 15.The girls received a musical education, and the most talented stayed and became The performance by the Asheville Symmembers of the Ospedale’s renowned phony Chorus will be held at Arden Presorchestra and choir. Vivaldi wrote many byterian Church, an outstanding facility works that were performed by these talfor performing music. Call for tickets at ented students. Their work was celebrated the Symphony office: (828) 254-7046.
If you go
Vol. 12, No. 2 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — October 2008 13
R A P I D R I V E R A R T S
Noteworthy Fundraising with Rosewood Wooden Bracelets
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1-800-663-2721 14 October 2008
— Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — Vol. 12, No. 2
ordon Eisenberg, the owner of Classic Wooden Belts & Classic Wooden Watches in Charlotte, realized there was a surplus of the wooden links he used to make his belts and watches and decided to recycle them into something that would be functional and uniquely different. Hence, the rosewood wooden bracelets, made in three styles, (natural, 6mm cat’s eye and 8mm cat’s eye beads) were born. Eisenberg, aside from selling the bracelets to retail venues across the nation, has also brought the rosewood wooden bracelets to his children’s school for the last four years and actually created a fun learning experience for children in the classroom. He starts out by measuring each of the children’s wrists and charting the number on the blackboard. Eisenberg then explains to the children about the metric system and how the United States is actually one of three remaining countries in the world not using the metric system. The children begin to make their bracelets with two pieces of nylon cord then add, by threading, the rosewood links they have chosen, doing so helps develop a child’s motor skills. “It’s really cool when you see kids working on a bracelet and you see that look of concentration on their faces you know you’ve had a part in making things better.” A couple of weeks before school was going to begin for the 2008-09 season, Eisenberg started thinking about the school fund raising projects that get underway each autumn. Well, one thing led to another and Eisenberg realized most schools have school colors. His children’s school colors are royal blue and white. Eisenberg decided to give his Children’s previous and current teachers, along with the principal, a Rosewood Wooden Bracelet with alternating royal blue and white cat’s eye beads. The reaction was extremely positive. To see examples of Eisenberg’s work you can visit his website
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Beth Gossett
at www.wooden-watch.com. If you don’t see a style you like, Eisenberg has plenty of other designs. Eisenberg will be participating at his children’s Funfest doing the bracelet fundraiser. “We hope it will make a lot of money for the school,” says Eisenberg. Half of the revenue will be going to the school. Eisenberg has met with various school districts in California and Colorado. “We are even getting a lot of interest with some of the local retailers who also wish to get involved.” Eisenberg’s plan is to first offer the schools the opportunity to raise money for their various school projects and then offer it to local retailers who will jointly match Classic Wooden Belts and Classic Wooden Watches 25% contribution which directly goes to the school. This way everyone wins and schools raise money for selling an appealing unique rosewood wooden bracelet with a local twist. Eisenberg welcomes teachers and schools from our area to contact him about the fundraising opportunites. He can be contacted through email on his website www.wooden-watch.com. In addition to school fundraisers, the kits can be used for organization fundraisers as well. “I sold a kit to someone in Houston, Texas,” says Eisenberg, “about a year ago, and his daughter, who loves animals, did a fundraiser for a local ‘no kill’ facility. She kept 50% of the proceeds and gave 50% to the shelter. For her kindness and ingenuity, she was written up in the local paper. I think this type of fundraiser works out really well for everyone.”
Classic Wooden Belts Classic Wooden Watches 704-567-9770 www.wooden-watch.com
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Thoreau's Garden The South African Geranium
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n the Philadelphia of 1784, Charles Wilson Peale Peter examines (1741-1827) the blossoms of opened a museearly-blooming um dedicated to Lenten roses. the wonders of art and nature. Both Peale and his museum are illustrated in a famous self-portrait showing the owner pulling aside a curtain and revealing a theatre of nature, including displays of stuffed, but exotic, animals, painted dioramas, and portraits of great Americans. Peale was a fascinating man not the least being his seventeen children. Included in the group were four men who became well-known artists: Raphaelle was a painter of tromp-l’oeil and still-lives, Titian worked with portraits, Rubens painted miniatures, and Rembrandt produced historical portraits, including a famous portrait of Thomas Jefferson. But perhaps one of Rembrandt’s most telling portraits was that of his young brother Rubens, dressed in a stylish suit jacket, wearing glasses that would be in vogue today, and holding a large and rangy (by today’s standards) geranium in a terracotta pot. The year was 1801 and Rubens (the family botanist) was exceptionally proud of his plant — especially because most plant lovers of the late 1700s wanted
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a geranium in their collections. tions of several African geraniums so by the The African geranium or pelargonium time an American middle class was expand(not to be confused with the American ing these plants were floral hits. The leaves wildflower) were given the species name of assume various shapes although usually zonale as derived from the zones of color following one pattern: they are circular and on the leaves. beautifully scalloped and lobed, with the In 1652 the Dutch East India Comveins for each lobe radiated from the petiole pany opened a trading post at Table Bay or stem, the leaves being velvety above. that eventually became a colony and from The stems are usually long and stiff that spot, hundreds of geraniums made and set alternately on the stem. After leaves their way to Europe. These geraniums grew have fallen, these stems often remain on on rocky slopes and along the forest edge the trunk giving untended plants a rather from the Southern Cape to Natal. They unkempt look. When geranium buds first preferred the dry and hot appear, they are nestled climates of South Africa. in a nest of protecting And that’s the reason they bracts, each bud being do so well in pots out in enclosed in a protective the hot southern sun and sepal. But as the flower also can go without constalk grows longer and tinual watering. droops a bit, the bracts Back in 1710 the fall off and the buds begin first plants were brought to open, center first. to England, initially by Single flowers have sailors who returned with five petals and at first these tough plants as gifts glance they all seem to be to wives and girlfriends. the same size but after a Because of the similarity careful look it’s evident between the long seed vesthat the upper two peats Illustration by Peter Loewer sel and a crane’s beak, the are much narrower at the common name of gerabase and project farther nium stems from the Greek word geranos forward than the lower three. And there are or crane. The genus Pelargonium, refers to evident lines on these upper petals that look pelargos, a stork, because, again, the beak of as though they were inked in by a steady the fruit does resemble the beak of that bird. hand. The lines all point to the center of In 1732 Dilleius published his Hortus the flower where a deep nectar-well is Elthamensis, with drawings and descripfound.
Going Vegan With Make-Up? You Bet!
ver wondered what is in the makeup you put on your face everyday? Well Gina Austin did and she’s on the crest of a wave of change about what you put on your face. The Buncombe county native now west coaster has always worked in the cosmetics industry... first as a cosmetologist but then for a large manufacturing company that had just started creating a make-up line. After Austin left WNC, she moved to New York and went back to school to study Marketing and Business and worked for several more cosmetics companies working in Research & Development, writing educational pieces on make-up, and product testing. “It was never on my radar to do my own line, but when I turned 40 and had my midlife crisis, I decided I wanted to do something...open a boutique...something, but then I decided to stick with what I knew and Stript cosmetics was born,” says Austin. “I decided I wanted to do a vegan
If you examine a flower with care, you’ll see that this nectar well extends almost the entire length of the stalk, down to a nectar gland that forms a hump at the base of the stalk. If a needle is thrust down the entire length of this nectar tube, you can see from its length that pollen is meant to be carried out by butterflies and moths, for these are the only insects with tongues long enough to reach the bottom. Nature abhors waste so when you look at the flowers of double geraniums, where the second level of petals have been formed by changed stamens there are no nectar glands because these flowers can never set seed. The geraniums that lead to today’s plants were first cultivated by the Duchess of Beaufort in 1710. With her horticultural lead most of the early cultivars were developed in England, including many developed in the 19th and 20th centuries. Germany, too, produced many colorful varieties and the famous Hillscheid Nurseries introduced eighty new varieties in just three years. But the heyday of geraniums began with the English Victorians and continued to the beginnings of the First World War. Then development of ornamental plants ceased because greenhouse heating was banned for the war effort. Finally, pelargoniums are grown for holding scents in the manufacture of perfume with the first species to be used for this purpose imported by the Duchess of Beaufort.
line, not because I’m a vegan, I’m a vegetarian, but I thought about the ethical treatment of animals in the make-up world and I knew that making a plantbased cosmetic would be even better. Second, I wanted to create a paraben-free makeup. Parabens are preservatives that keep the water in make-up from growing bacteria and it’s a synthetic product. Research has found that parabens have been found in some breast cancer tumors so somehow the parabens are penetrating the skin and getting in. With all we do to our skin, microderm abrasion, exfoliation, etc., we are preventing our skin from protecting us and my product, Stript, doesn’t do that, and that’s why we say ‘what are you not wearing’” explains Austin. Fortunate enough to hook up with an excellent chemist, Austin was able to discover that there is an alternative to parabens as a preservative. Stript uses Japanese honeysuckle to preserve her product. “My product is the most natural on the market. While other products use the word “bare” or “natural”, my product
is more “bare than bare”, which is how I came up with the name Stript for my line,” says Austin. “I just have the environment in my blood. I was raised that way here in North Carolina.” Stript, rolled out officially last November, has just taken off by leaps and bounds. Austin has found herself becoming a one-woman show in doing Research and Development, Marketing, Distribution, you name it. In fact, Austin will begin distributing in Atlanta very soon. “If this wasn’t my passion,” says Austin, “I wouldn’t have fun at all!” One look at the logo, a 50’s pinup girl with a flower in her hair with a almost un-noticeable “sr” on the flower, says it all. The “sr” stands for social responsibility. As aforementioned, all products are vegan, paraben-free, use talc-free natural minerals, utilize ingredient awareness, avoid artificial fragrance, use natural preservatives, use eco-friendly formulations and packaging, utilize only fair trade labor if something cannot be acquired in this country (90%
‘African Geranium’ continued on pg. 38
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Beth Gossett
is American made), and cause marketed. According to one of the tag lines, Stript is “where purity and passion unite.” As far as cause marketing goes, Stript sells only synthetic brushes and donates part of the proceeds to animal rescue charities or to P.E.T.A. They also support the American Cancer Society, the Susan B. Komen Foundation and St. Jude’s. Now as to where you can find Stript in our area, unfortunately, right now unless you can get to Georgia, Florida, Alabama or Tennessee in the near future, there are no distributors close to us. However, you can visit the website www. striptmakeup.com and read more about the products and order them online. If you have questions you can email info@ striptmakeup.com. Prices range from foundation at $36, to powder, blushes, eyeshadows and pencils from $15-$26. Brush prices are $22-$38. “Everyone should want to look ‘ecosexy’,” states Austin.
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MUSIC October CD Reviews by James Cassara Life is too short to waste on uninteresting music so, be it given one star or five, you can rest assured anything reviewed here is well worth seeking out. And be certain to do so at one of our many fine independent record shops, for whose existence we should all be grateful.
Carrie Rodriguez
She Ain’t Me Manhattan Records Having moved beyond the tutorship of Chip Taylor, singer, songwriter, and fiddler Carrie Rodriguez’s sophomore solo effort marks a dramatic turn for the artist. Without Taylor as co-conspirator Rodriguez co-writes all but one tune, and relies instead on such well respected names as ex-Jayhawk Gary Louris and Daniel Lanois disciple Malcolm Burn. For the most part she puts down the fiddle while picking up guitar and mandolin, while displaying a surprisingly strong if indistinguishable voice. For those who have followed her career this represents a very different Carrie Rodriguez. Not a thing wrong with changing directions but, for those previously mesmerized by Rodriguez fiddling pyrotechnics, She Ain’t Me is likely going to come up a bit short. Yet the slow steady smolder of the album is certainly not without its charm. “Absence,” co-scribed by sonic simpatico Mary Gauthier, is one of the more intriguing songs Rodriguez has yet written, penetrating into a mysterious shadow world that the artist would do well to further explore. The sparsely arranged “Let Me In” is a sultry number that shows the depth of range Rodriguez can, when pushed by another vocalist, (in this case touring mate Lucinda Williams) conjure up. For his part producer Burns imbues the album with the same sort of sonic nuance he’s previously delivered to Emmylou Harris and Dylan; a seductive atmosphere of percussion, bass, and looped rhythm set astride muted guitar and strings. It’s a delicious recipe, and while Rodriguez herself seems a bit subdued it still works. She Ain’t Me may not be as readily accessible as its predecessor but, given repeated listens, its strengths and sustainability become increasingly apparent. ***1/2
The Festival
Come, Arrow, Come! Drag City Music Part British folk revival and part hopelessly precious ingénue, the de16 October 2008
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but album by sisters Lindsay Powell and Alexis Powell offers a glimpse back towards an era that, while fondly recalled by some, would just as soon be forgotten by others. The sisters revel in the curious mix of modern folk and psychedelic whoop-affected with a sort of faux medieval sound-once made popular by the Incredible String Band. But while ISB commandeered a level of pretension they never took themselves as seriously as do the Lindsay and Alexis. Even more perplexing are the hurried arrangements that undermine what sincerity the two do evince; it’s as if the musicians-which include members of the Nashville based poppunk band Be Our Own Pet- know the sound they want but are a loss as to how to replicate it. To be certain the harmonies are lovely and, despite a veneer that quickly proves thin, there are moments of genuine inspiration. The gospel tinged “Valentine” manages a nice field recording effect, while “Come Outside!” closes the album on a high note: Crashing piano is set cleverly against electronic beat box, and while it sounds a bit out of place herein it nonetheless evokes a joy and pleasure that Come, Arrow, Come! is woefully short of. That track would be a great place from which to launch the next record, giving the sisters-as well as us-something to look forward to. **
Lindsay Buckingham Gift of Screws Reprise Records A few aborted and misguided Fleetwood Mac reunions aside, Lindsay Buckingham has been for the most part keeping a pretty low profile. Under the Skin, his 2006 semi-comeback, was a largely low key ami-
able affair, seemingly designed to keep the artist on the radar screen while he geared up for the proper moment to kick some serious guitar butt. That moment has arrived: Gift of Screws is Buckingham at his screaming six string best, torching up the soundscape in a take-no-prisoners conflagration that rivals the best work he’s done. Under the auspices of producer Rob Cavallo the mood is dark, angry, and introspective. Best of all there’s a sense of urgency too often absent from Buckingham’s music, a sentiment that he’d better get his message out there before all hell breaks loose. And what a message it is. Darkness does indeed cover the break of dawn in “Wait for You”, a fiery number (fueled by his old band mates Fleetwood and McVie) with Buckingham literally screaming such lines “suicide nights/In the wheelchair almost blind,” Fleetwood’s thunderous drums revs up the Mactinged “The Right Place to Fade” which is replete with gorgeous harmonies and a the sort of killer hook few do as well as does Buckingham. Otherwise things are more subdued, from the lovely psychedelic folk rock of “Time Precious Time” to the ‘is he singing about Stevie Nicks drama of “Did You Miss Me?” Not that it matters. What does carry substance is that this is far and away the best solo record of Buckingham’s career, coming at a time in which he’s clearly cast aside the demons of fame and fortune and gone back to making music for its own sake on his own terms. Gift of Screws may hearken back to the best days of Fleetwood Mac but it points directly towards the future, one in which Lindsay Buckingham’s star will continue to shine bright and clear. ****
Ruby Rendrag
War Time Favorites Ruby Rendrag certainly knows adversity and heartache. Three years ago the New Orleans’ based artist witnessed the devastation of her community and home by way of Katrina. Just as she was recording her debut effort, the aptly named and barely noticed Interrupted her world literally came apart. A year later, still recovering from that terrible ordeal Rendrag endured the death of her mother, a woman she describes as ‘CD’s’ continued on next pg.
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The Duhks at the Garage in Biltmore
he Duhks have long prided themselves on their sense of individuality coupled with a work ethic that would be the envy of many a band. Since their inception, the Winnipeg based group has staked out a unique but significant niche in the Americana music scene: Their blend of Cajun/Appalachian/Celtic music has both explored and reinvigorated the various strands of music so primal to their sound. Founded by Leonard Podolak, whose previous outfit Scruj MacDuhk (presumably named after the Disney character) had recently called it quits, the Duhks offered a perfect opportunity to begin anew a band that could fuse eclectic modern sounds with traditional roots. In 2002, along with lead singer Jessica Havey, whose interest in the blues mirrored his own, French-Canadian fiddler Tania Elizabeth and guitarist Jordan McConnell, the quartet self-
‘CD’s’ continued
“the greatest influence in my life.” None of this is to elicit sympathy; all of us suffer loss and hardship, but if ever an album was forged by the circumstance of its creation War Time Favorites is it. In the months following Katrina there were no functional music studios in The Crescent City. War Time Favorites was recorded in a FEMA trailer, slowly and meticulously linked into a coherent effort by Rendrag and producer Ben Mumphrey, known best for his work with the Pixies. It’s a fascinating-although somewhat flawed-released, a song cycle whose grasp may exceed its reach but still offers insight into an artist whose potential is only limited by luck and fortune. After a brief interlude of radio static and commercial free interruption the album explodes with “Not Today” and “Superman”, a pair of exhilarating rockers chock full of unexpected chord changes, dramatic shifts in tempo, and Rendrag’s own Chrissie Hynde like snarl. It’s a heady mixture of Beck meets Aimee Mann and, were the album able to sustain such intensity, we’d be looking at a masterwork. As it is War Time Favorites flattens out a bit, occasionally wandering off into
released their debut, band to be replaced Your Daughters and by the brother and Your Sons. sister duo of Sarah Originally given a and Christian Dugas. Canadian only distribuThe new band tion the album gathsettled down in ered enough interest Nashville to prepare to eventually be given songs for the next a stateside release, as album, this time with well as catching the producer Jay Joyce at attention of someone the helm. Fast Paced at the North-CarolinaWorld was released based label Sugar Hill that August and was Records. After adding immediately followed Lead singer Jessica Havey percussionist Scott Seby their most extenPhoto by Joshua Blankenship - Flickr nior, the band released sive tour yet. their self-titled major Besides pushing effort-produced by Béla Fleck- in 2005. the band to new musical limits, all this The next year saw the arrival of road time had another less expected conMigrations, produced this time by sequence: Increasingly conscious of the label mate and contemporary bluegrass amount of waste accumulated in touring, stalwart Tim O’Brien, followed by an the band began an environmentalism extensive tour and a highly acclaimed initiative called The Duhks Sustainabilappearance at 2007’s MerleFest. Not ity Project, complete with a website and long after, Havey and Senior left the mission statement that encouraged mu-
soft rock predictability, but eventually rights itself with such deft numbers as “Anything You Are” and the heart wrenching closure of “Clair De Lune”. It’s sound spans the decades, from 1940s style cabaret to Gary Numan like techno pop (with a bit of slightly awkward confessional singer/songwriter thrown in the mix) and if Rendrag is guilty of anything it’s attempting too much. But that’s a sin more artists should commit. For an essentially first time effort War Time Favorites is a remarkable effort, a fascinating listen and emotionally engaging collection of songs from an unknown artist almost certain to make her mark. ***1/2
Paul Westerberg
49:00 Since dismantling the Replacements Paul Westerberg has proudly cultivated his reputation as an aging world class crank, even going so far as recording under the non de plume Grandpaboy. It’s an image that fits him well, ignoring the trends of the day while purveying his own ramshackle brand of booze laden folk/rock. Yet here he is embracing a whole new world. Originally available only as a digi-
tal download 49:00 is now available via the standard retail shops. It’s also been expanded so that the discs length actually corresponds with its title: Clever chap, that Westerberg! As to the record itself 49:00 is a terse and seamless single track collection of various sonic noodles bereft of song titles, liner notes, or even much in the way of conventional structure. By forcing listeners to hear the album in its entirety Westerberg clearly intends this to be taken seriously, rather than sampled at random intervals. As well he should since, at its core, 49:00 is as intriguing a record as he’s likely to make, wandering in and out of familiar terrain with the predictability of a drunken brawl. There are just enough distinguishable songs to keep things in focus while the ragged, unfinished moments, remind us what a brilliant songsmith Westerberg remains. Far from being a frustrating collection of unfinished home demos this rag tag collection plays as a complete whole, where the unraveling nature and primitive four track recording are part and parcel of its charm. Ever the rebellious one Westerberg is unlikely to ever again make records as seminal as his watershed years with the ‘Mats but off all his solo creations 49:00 comes closest to matching the spirit, if not the epiphany, of those years of wonderment. ***
by James
Cassara
sicians to be greener by using biodiesel fuel, wearing earth-friendly cosmetics, and eating organic foods. It is this new and improved, environmentally conscious band that will arrive at The Garage in Biltmore. Buoyed by a new singer, and new awareness, and an ever increasingly cadre of new fans, The Duhks future would appear to be bright indeed. The Duhks
If you go The Duhks at the Garage in Biltmore. Friday, October 17 at 9:30 p.m. Tickets: $10. For more information go to www. thegarageatbiltmore.com
Yoga Rock Star Jai Uttal Performs October 13 The Prama Institute presents Grammy nominated world musician and kirtan singer Jai Uttal for a concert on Monday, October 13, 7:30 p.m. at Jubilee Church, 46 Wall Street. Uttal will be joined by his long time friend and tabla virtuoso Daniel Paul. Jai Uttal’s eclectic East-meetsWest sound has musical roots ranging from Appalachian mountain music to the passionate songs of Bengali street singers, from the haunting rhythms and melodies of ancient India to contemporary rock and jazz sounds. Tickets are $25 at the door, and are available at Malaprops Books, online at www.pramainstitute.org, or by phone: (828) 649-9408.
Vol. 12, No. 2 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — October 2008 17
Have That Special Item Framed While You Visit With “Rafferty”
OFFERING: Expert Picture Framing Shadowboxes ~ Mirrors Local Artists Work Pet Portraits by Maggie
900 Hendersonville Rd. Suite 102 Asheville
247-5176
www.fastframeasheville.com
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STAGE PREVIEW Asheville Choral Society presents the Southeast Premiere of
Asheville Bravo Concerts presents
Sir Paul McCartney’s Oratorio
The 5 Browns
sheville Choral Soby John Clark ciety Music Director Lenora Thom has made it official: the southeastern United States premiere of Sir Paul McCartney’s oratorio Ecce cor Meum (Behold my Heart) will be in Asheville on October 12. The Lenora Thom, music director of the Asheville Choral season concerts that follow Society. Photo by Lynne Harty are “Magnificent Christmas,” GAIA: A Celebration of the holiday pieces by Earth,” and “The Colors of My Life” (the William Walton, pops concert). John Rutter, and Sir Paul McCartney McCartney’s oratorio premiered in Mechem’s “Seven the U.S. to a sold-out Carnegie Hall house Joys of Christmas.” The performance in November 2006, and the recording was concludes with the clever “A Musicoa huge hit in the classical world, reaching logical Journey through the 12 Days of the number two spot in the Top Classical Christmas” by Craig Courtney, including Albums chart. The Asheville Choral Sosuch verses as ‘Three French Hens from ciety performance will be only the second 16th Century Italy,’ ‘Six Geese a-laying time the work has been performed in the from 18th century Austria,’ and ‘Twelve U.S. since its Carnegie Hall debut. Drummers Drumming from 19th Cen“We are thrilled to have the southeast tury USA.” The performances will be held premiere of this work,” said Ms. Thom. at Central United Methodist Church, 27 “Ecce cor Meum or ‘Behold my Heart’ is Church Street in downtown Asheville. a solid oratorio filled with those beguiling For the March 28 and 29 concerts, Paul McCartney melodies. I know not Lenora Thom and the ACS will pay only our regular fans but also those who tribute to Mother Earth. “GAIA: A Celwill hear us for the time will delight in ebration of the Earth.” Ralph Vaughan this music.” Williams’ Sea Symphony will open the The work will be performed by the program. Missa Gaia (Mass for the Earth) ACS, soprano soloist Anne O’Byrne, by American composer Libby Larsen and a children’s chorus (The Celebration selections from Haydn’s The Creation Singers directed by Ginger Haselden), will conclude the concert. Soloists for the and the ACS orchestra. McCartney performances with the ACS Orchestra composed the work during his first wife will be soprano Elizabeth Keusch and Linda’s battle with cancer and her subbaritone Kurt Willett. sequent death. Of the work, McCartney The annual and popular pops consays, “It’s about truth, love, and honesty cert by the ACS will be May 30 and 31 and kindness and just stuff that I thought at the Diana Wortham Theatre. For her was important in life.” focal point, Lenora Thom draws from “The ACS Sings Classical McCartthe hit musical Barnum and its beautiful ney: The Benefit Concert and Celebration ballad ‘The Colors of My Life.” Others Reception” will be presented at 4 p.m. selections include “I’m always Chasing on October 12 at the Diana Wortham Rainbows,” “Mood Indigo,” “Shakin’ the Theatre in downtown Asheville. Proceeds Blues Away,” “Mountain Greenery,” and will go to support efforts to attract larger the Beatles’ “Yellow Submarine.” The and more diversified audiences for ACS ACS show band will again be on hand to concerts. Tickets with “Sir Paul Section” provide an additional punch to the music. special reserved seating, a program listing, the concert and the reception are $100. For the concert and reception, tickets are $75. Ticket buyers will be entered automatically in a drawing for a pair of season Tickets for the benefit concert “The ACS subscriptions. A portion of each ticket Sings Classical McCartney” and for the season performances are available at www. price is tax deductible. ashevillechoralsociety.org or by calling The ACS season subscription con(828) 232-2060. Only one performance, certs begin with “Magnificent Christmas” order tickets now! on Saturday, December 13 at 8 p.m. and Sunday, December 14 at 4 p.m. The A 33% discount over individual tickets concert opens with a stirring section of is available through November 1 for a subscription to the December, March and magnificats by Bach, Pachelbel, Mozart May season concerts. and others. The program also includes
he 5 Browns are classical music’s first family of piano virtuosos. In the music world they are an unprecedented concerts attraction: a singular quintet of world-class concert pianists, performing on five Steinway grand pianos and various ensemble combinations, dedicated to bringing classical music to the lives of people everywhere. Bravo includes a complimentary educational lecture regarding the performance one-hour prior to the show. These lectures will take place in the Banquet Hall of The Civic Center. All students (elementary through graduate school), homeschoolers, preschoolers, parents groups, church organizations, and community organizations are invited to attend a free student concert of The 5 Browns on Saturday October 25 at 2 p.m. Limited availability, reservations are required. Call Paula Bolado (828) 225-5887.
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If you go October 25, 2008 at 7:30 p.m. Thomas Wolfe Auditorium, Asheville, NC Tickets: $25-$50 through Ticketmaster at www.ticketmaster.com or (828) 251-5505 or The Civic Center Box Office. Students receive half-price seating. For more information about Asheville Bravo Concerts and for season subscriptions call (828) 225-5887 and visit us on the web at www.ashevillebravoconcerts.org.
If you go
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FINE ART The Weaverville
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he Fall version of the very popular Weaverville Art Safari self-guided studio tour will take place on Saturday, November 1 and Sunday, November 2, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily. During that weekend more than forty participating artists will welcome the public into their homes, studios and/or galleries. Visitors will meet the artists personally, see demonstrations at many studios, and enjoy the opportunity to browse through/purchase some very fine art directly from its source. Some added bonuses include the fact that the tour is free, and that it takes place in the midst of some of the world’s most beautiful scenery, right at the peak time of year for spectacular fall foliage. On Friday evening, October 31, Art Safari members will stage their usual preevent preview party at the Reems Creek Golf Course clubhouse from 7-9 p.m. Participating artists all donate samples of their work for sale at the end of the evening in a silent auction. In addition to the silent auction, many fine door prizes are awarded. Refreshments and a cash bar are available. Tickets for the preview party are available at the door for $10. Additional door prize tickets may be purchased for $5. All proceeds go to support the production of future Art Safari tours. The Weaverville Art Safari was founded in 2001 with an eye towards making the public more aware of the remarkable concentration of fine artists and craftspeople who live and work in and around the village of Weaverville, NC. A secondary goal was establishing Weaverville, located just a few miles north of Asheville, NC, as ‘Romeo & Juliette’ continued from pg. 5
Tenor John Hodel, playing Romeo, is well remembered for previous performances with ALO, including La Boheme and Madame Butterfly. He has appeared in opera, concert and oratorio in the United States and in Europe. Diana McEwenMartin, playing Juliette, has been gaining a solid reputation as a soprano with a consistently rich, beautiful and full voice. She regularly performs with Opera Carolina and Piedmont Opera and has presented in venues across the United States. Conductor Keith Chambers is equally at home in the opera house and
Art Safari by
Steven Forbes-deSoule
an arts/crafts destination. Now, nearing the end of its eighth year of existence, the Weaverville Art Safari seems to have achieved and surpassed both of those original goals. Hundreds of Art Safari fans … many of whom are gallery owners, but most of whom are just art lovers … travel to the area from cities and towns throughout the Southeast and beyond. While the event has been featured in many regional magazines and newspapers, word-of-mouth buzz about the event and the availability of Art Safari information online seem to be the most potent traffic builders of all.
If you go November 1-2, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., in Weaverville, NC The Art Safari’s website (www.weavervilleartsafari.com) provides many details re participating artists, sample photos of their work, and an easy-to-download-and-print version of the tour’s official brochure. During Art Safari weekend there is an information booth available, with brochures and maps, located in downtown Weaverville from 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. the concert stage as conductor and recitalist. He is currently Assistant Conductor of the New York City Opera and Head of Music Staff, Associate Conductor of Opera New Jersey. Audiences can expect plenty of love duets in Romeo and Juliette, described as the greatest love story ever told. “This is some of the best love music you can hear in opera,” said Sandel. When asked if Romeo and Juliette would be a good first opera for newcomers, Dallo replied, “Any opera is a great first opera. It is a step into another world.”
Vol. 12, No. 2 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — October 2008 21
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Trick? Or Treat? Treats! Some Favorite Books about Witches from the Village Witch
October 2008
Saturday, October 4 at 7 p.m. ANNA HAYES reads from Without Precedent: The Life of Susie Marshall Sharp. Wednesday, October 8 at 7 p.m. Greg Melville will discuss Greasy Rider: Two Dudes, One Fry-Oil-Powered Car and a Cross-Country Search for a Greener Future. Friday, October 10 at 7 p.m. MARY ELLEN KORMAN will read from her biography of Ethel Merston. Sunday, October 12 at 3 p.m. RON RASH reads from his novel, Serena. Thursday, October 16 at 7 p.m. ARJUNA ARDAGH will offer tips and exercises from his book Leap Before You Look. Friday, October 17 at 7 p.m. Creative Stained Glass: Modern Designs and Simple Techniques with CHRIS STEVENSON Saturday, October 18 at 7 p.m. ROY UNDERHILL presents The Woodwright’s Guide: Working Wood with Wedge and Edge. Tuesday, October 21 at 7 p.m. MICHAEL WALDEN reads from North Carolina in the Connected Age: Challenges and Opportunities in a Globalizing Economy. Thursday, October 23 at 7 p.m. GEORGE & ELIZABETH ELLISON present High Vistas: An Anthology of Nature Writing from Western North Carolina & the Great Smoky Mountains. Friday, October 24 at 7 p.m. WILLIAM CONESCU reads from and discusses his new novel, Being Written. Saturday, October 25 at 2 p.m. LAUREL SNYDER signs copies of her young adult novel, Up and Down the Scratchy Mountains. Saturday, October 25 at 7 p.m. RANDY RUSSELL discusses Ghost Cats of the South. Sunday, October 26 at 3pm EILEEN WALKENSTEIN discusses The Imprinters: Surviving the Unlived Life of Our Parents.
55 Haywood St.
828-254-6734 • 800-441-9829 Hours: Mon-Thurs, 8am-9pm Fri & Sat, 8am-10pm; Sun, 8am-7pm
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any of you know that I blog as “the Village Witch” — so who better to talk about witchy books for the Hallowe’en season. It’s October and folks turn their attention to the lore and craft of witches, either real or fictional. I’ve collected up some of my favorites, both old and new, and present them to you for some good reading this Hallows-tide. First some yummy fiction: “The Lace Reader” by Brunonia Barry Given the level of buzz on this book, I was all geared up to detest it. But I can’t. The writing is good and the story is fascinating. All kinds of divination techniques are mainstream these days — tarot, runes, even tea-leaf reading. But lace? I think you’ll like the characters and the suspense. “The Lace Reader” is worth a read, especially in October. “Practical Magic” by Alice Hoffman This is one of my favorites. I like almost everything Hoffman writes and the kitchen-witchery in this one is appealing. As always, the book is better than the movie. (But the movie was good, too.) Gilly and Sally are very different but the bond they share as sisters goes beyond the shared teen years and childish pledges. Seeing the multi-generational characters and the way magic-working matures with experience — and age — seems particularly apt. “The Wee Free Men” by Terry Pratchett Some writers understand the essentially earth-centered nature of magic and they get past the pentacles, the long black robes, the ring-laden fingers. Pratchett is one of them. His witch-in-training is a village girl who is training with hilarious and powerful witch-mentors. In the first book of the series, our Tiffany meets up with a hive of tiny blue Picts and saves her brother from the Faeries. But the sense of magic is quite real and as terrifying and earthy as it ought to be. It’s now available in an illustrated edition. There are two other Tiffany books that are also worth a read — ”A Hat Full of Sky” and “The Wintersmith” Also check out “Wyrd Sisters”, part of Pratchett’s Discworld series. “Wicked” and “Son of a Witch” by Gregory Maguire “Wicked: the Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West” has been a Broadway phenom for years and is now doing regional tours. Maguire went to Oz and turned the familiar stories on their collective heads. “Wicked” gives us the back story of the Witch of the West, Elphaba and Glinda, the Witch of the North
— Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — Vol. 12, No. 2
and “Son of a Witch” continues that story. The writing is rich and the stories dark, smart, revelatory. (Maquire returns to the Oz stories in a new book “A Lion Among Men”.) “Juniper” by Monica Furlong I must have a “thing” for witches in training — perhaps because the training never really ends. “Juniper” is one of a series of excellent middle-reader books that are magical and fun. Also check out “Wise Child” and “Colman”. “The Witches of Eastwick” by John Updike I re-read this recently and it holds up, though it almost seems like a period piece these days. The writing is Updike good — if you like him, you’ll love it. The characters are surprisingly fresh and the magic is deliciously simple and effective. What is it about New England and witches? I want to offer you a couple of choices for non-fiction reading on this subject. You need a strong stomach for this study of the European inquisitions but if you are a student of history, “Witchcraze: a New History of the European Witch Hunts” by Anne Barstow brings a clearer view of a neglected area of history. “Witching Culture: Folklore and NeoPaganism in America” by Sabina Magliocco Magliocco is a professor of anthropology and she takes us dancing into the
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H. Byron Ballard world of modern witchcraft. She details the practice, as well as the roots of one of the fastest growing religious movements on the planet. A surprisingly smooth read — chock full of
fun-facts and curiosity. No tricks here — all treats. As the nights grow longer, pick up a couple of these books and transport yourself to a foreign place, one that may be just around the corner from where you are.
Happy Hallowe’en, booklovers! Byron Ballard is a bookseller, organic gardener and a beekeeper. Her writings have appeared in local and national print and electronic media. She blogs for the Asheville Citizen-Times as “the Village Witch”. Byron lives on an urban farmstead in Asheville’s historic West End with her husband Joe and daughter Kate. Byron Ballard, Asheville’s Village Witch http://blogs.citizen-times.com/blogs/ index.php?blog=18
Historic Hendersonville Walking Tour
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lue Ridge Community College, Henderson County Public Library, and Together We Read are sponsoring a walking tour through downtown Hendersonville on Thursday, October 23. The Historic Tour is offered at either 10 a.m. or 1:30 p.m. and should last approximately one hour. Reservations are required for this free event, call (828) 694-1865. As part of the program, local historian Louise Bailey will give a presentation at the Historic Courthouse about the original settlers of this area. Bailey, a native of Henderson County, is full of stories about life in these mountains. This free twenty minute presentation will begin at 11:30 a.m. on October 23. Participants should meet in the Community Room on the second floor of the Historic Courthouse, no reservations necessary. Lu Ann Welter of the Hendersonville Preservation Commission has gra-
ciously volunteered to lead the Historic Downtown Walking Tour. In 2005, Welter co-authored “Hendersonville,” a part of the “Images of America” series. “Hendersonville” is a pictorial history book that reveals Hendersonville’s past through vintage images. The Historic Downtown Hendersonville Walking Tour and presentation by Louise Bailey were inspired by the Western North Carolina reading program Together We Read, co-sponsor of this event. The program encourages all of Western North Carolina to read and discuss the same book during the fall and winter of each year. The 2008 book choice is Robert Morgan’s “Boone,” the story of the first great American frontier hero, Daniel Boone. For more information about the free Historic Downtown Hendersonville Walking Tour, please call Jennifer Parrack-Rogers at (828) 694-1865 or email jprogers@blueridge.edu.
R A P I D R I V E R A R T S
An Open Letter To Pablo Neruda
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ear Pablo, For so long I have wanted to write and tell how you have affected my life, but I can never seem to find the right words. Not that I am intimated by your volumes of poetic words—well, not so much as I once was, but I just can’t seem to find the right words. You wrote about words, remember? “…it’s the words that sing, they soar and descend . . . I bow to them . . . I love them, I cling to them, I run them down, I bite into them, I melt them down . . . I love words so much . . . The unexpected ones . . . The ones I wait for greedily or stalk until, suddenly, they drop . . . Vowels I love . . . They glitter like colored stones, they leap like silver fish, they are foam, thread, metal, dew . . . I run after certain words . . . They are so beautiful that I want to fit them all into my poem…”* How long did it take you to learn to fasten the words in your blood to the page? Strange, isn’t it? How one’s thoughts, when put on paper, can influence the lives of others for years and years to come? I am still at a loss as to what I want to say about your creative gift, so I asked Mark Eisner, editor of The Essential Neruda: Selected Poems,** to define your poetry: “Neruda’s body of poetry is so vast and varied that it’s impossible to define or classify. But one can look at the different stages of his life and correlate each with a distinct style for that period which matched his mental state. His young anguished heart led to the intense, aching lyricism of Twenty Love Poems and A
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Song of Despair. FollowAnd a pacifist. He always ing that, though, he fell looked for the demoA sacred fury... into a protracted depresan uncommon madness... cratic path to revolution sion, which became even in Chile. I do have to more desolate in his greatly disrespect his solitude while serving strict Stalinism, which as a consul in the Far he didn’t revoke until East. This is reflected long after he knew of the in the surrealistic first crimes, until it was too two books of Residence late. a scattering of birds... on Earth. Next, he was Neruda’s humansocially and politically istic political poetry, be by MariJo Moore charged in Spain after it in the fire charge of following an idyllic circle his Spanish Civil War of writers and artists, which was suddenly poems, or the subtle political allegories of destroyed by the fascists in the Spanhis odes, are some of the greatest verses ish Civil War. His great friend Federico ever written. But in between there were García Lorca was assassinated in the first a whole bunch of Stalinist propagandist days. From this point on, he took up what verse which is just so bombastic and he felt was the poet’s duty, to speak out lacking heart that it only serves now as against injustices through his verse. As he a historical affect, not the true poetry he wrote in his definitive Spanish Civil War consistently wrote in all his other aims.” poem [“I Explain Some Things”]: Yes, dear Pablo, you have touched, and You will ask why his poetry doesn’t continue to touch, the lives of thousands speak to us of dreams, of the leaves, of the of us, regardless of race, sex, geographical great volcanoes of his native land? locale, or political affiliation. Gracias. I only [any longer] wish I could have heard you read your poCome and see the blood in the streets, etry in person while you still walked terra come and see the blood in the streets, firma in body as well as spirit. come and see the blood in the streets! * Excerpted from Memoirs by Pablo Neruda This led to his epic interpretation (NY: Penguin, 1974). of the history of the Americas, Canto ** (City Lights Books: San Francisco) General. His odes followed, where he was I encourage readers to visit Eisner’s noble able to show the social utility in natural Nerudian work at www.redpoppy.net. materials. In his later years, his poetry took a more personal, lighter tone, often still political. He was one of the most MariJo Moore is the author of a dozen prolific poets, ever.” books including three books of poetry: And then I asked Mark: Does the fact Spirit Voices of Bones, Confessions of a that Neruda was Communist have any Madwoman (now available on CD), and the bearing on your respect for him or his forthcoming Poets Inhale The Darkness poetry? To which he replied: Artists Breathe. She resides in the moun“Neruda has all my respect as a hutains of western NC. www.marijomoore.com manist, which he was, first and foremost.
Bookstore Happenings Friday, October 3, 7 p.m. George Ellison presents High Vistas: An Anthology of Nature Writing from Western North Carolina to the Great Smoky Mountains. Saturday, October 4, 11 a.m. Elizabeth Haydon presents her young adult series, Lost Journals of Ven Polypheme. Saturday, October 4, 1 p.m. Cheri Clifton will be signing her novel Trail To Destiny. Saturday, October 11, 3 p.m. Lloyd Arneach will sign his book Long-Ago of the Eastern Cherokee. Saturday, October 11, 7 p.m. Talented singer/songwriter Lorraine Conard performs in the cafe. Monday, October 13, 3-5 p.m. Ron Rash signs his new book Serena. Saturday, October 18, 11 a.m. Children’s authors Jan and Hank Racer will be here to sign books Saturday, October 18, 1 p.m. Raylene King signs 31 Spiritual Lessons I Learned from my Dog. Thursday, October 23 12 noon – Lunch with Frederick E. Bryson author of Scent of the River and Wind in the Web. $10, reservations required – limited to 14 seats. 1 p.m. – Frederick E. Bryson book signing Saturday, October 25 12:30 p.m. – Lunch with Patti Dihg author of Life Is a Verb: 37 Days to Wake Up, Be Mindful, and Live Intentionally. $10, reservations required – limited to 14 seats. 1 p.m. – Patti Dihg book signing
“Tea-Up” at Osondu Booksellers’ Tea Room with fresh loose leaf organic and fair-traded tea by the cup, pot, ounce or pound.
Osondu Booksellers
184 N. Main, Waynesville, NC
(Includes autograph and S&H)
Hours: Monday thru Thursday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday & Saturday, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Closed Sunday
To order call Jaileen at (828) 488-8216. Books may be picked up at Malaprops.
www.osondubooksellers.com
$25 For All 3 Books!
(828) 456-8062
Vol. 12, No. 2 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — October 2008 23
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®
ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE
th
Annual Poetry Contest
Any unpublished poem 35 lines or less is wanted!
5 Winners
Prizes Include: Tickets to local concerts (TBA); Tickets to the Opera; Mellow Mushroom Gift Certificates; and books from Malaprops. Deadline December 12th. Winning poems will be printed in the February 2009 issue. Reading fee: $5 for five poems. For more info call (828) 258-3752. Send poems to: Rapid River Poetry Contest 85 N. Main St. Canton, NC 28716
The End of Eden:
Writings of an Environmental Activist The essays of Thomas Rain Crowe combine with the stirring illustrations of Robert Johnson to produce a prophetic vision of the world in which we live — a vision of what we have and what we stand to loose through our careless disregard for the Earth and its finite resources. A kind of activist’s handbook, this is one man’s attempt at saving his homeland from mindless hedonism, outside invasion, and outright denial. “Robert Johnson is a profoundly gifted artist filled with originality, intelligence, and integrity.”
~ John Cram, Director, Blue Spiral I Gallery
24 October 2008
Life is a Verb by Patti Digh
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hat would you do if you had 37 days to live? More importantly, how would you spend them? Patti Digh’s book Life is a Verb asks these loaded questions and then beautifully and wonderfully answers them. Over the past 10 years I have read and reviewed hundreds of self-help books — some I found enjoyable, worthy of note, most however, have made me just feel sorry for the poor tree. Digh’s book I have already read twice. Actually, I read it each night before bed, and have for the past 40 plus days. I can also see myself reading it for many many months to come. I have even bought five copies for family and friends who I am sure will probably do the same. In Verb Digh has selected 37 essays from her famous blog 37days.net and reprints them as chapters. The book is also incredibly illustrated with stunning works of art and complimented with
Reviewed by Beth Gossett
poems and quotes. This book works on so many levels that it cannot be described simply as a “self-help” book because it’s also a well-crafted coffee table book; a meditation book; a self-realization book. It’s a journey. It’s art. It’s also, and perhaps most importantly, a guide to living. Patti Digh is the creator and editor of the award-winning blog 37days.net. She is a frequent speaker on diversity and leadership issues, and her comments have appeared on PBS and in the Wall Street Journal, the New York Times, and USA Today. She and her husband live with their two daughters, a dog named Blue, and three cats in Asheville.
Q&A with Glenis Redmond
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apid River: What insight and feelings did you experience while reading to a packed Malaprops Cafe book release party? Glenis Redmond: Grateful that the Universe had a great birthday gift for me. I was overwhelmed emotionally but I slowed down enough so that I could feel fully present. I had many full circle moments. A former student (now teaching) who saw me perform six years ago brought a busload of her students. I read with Sebastian Matthews, Laura Hope-Gill, Alan Wolf, and Patricia Starek, people I grew up with in the literary world. Susanne Abrams who started me on the Artist Way 15 years ago was present. My mom and one of my daughters were sitting on the front row. I ended with a poem for my grandmother, titled “She.” I cried like a baby while I did the poem, but I honored her. The list goes on for that night. It was a powerful evening. RR: Explain how the title of your new book relates to you. GR: In 1993 my life changed drastically due to illness. I love the scripture Ecclesiastes 3:1. It allowed me a great perspective about what was happening during this intense time in my life. RR: Is your poetry political or religious in orientation?
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In October 2003, Digh’s stepfather was diagnosed with lung cancer. He died 37 days later. The timeframe made an impression on her. What emerged was a commitment to ask herself every morning: What would I be doing today if I had only 37 days left to live? The answers changed her life and led to this new kind of book. Part meditation, part how-to guide, part memoir, Life is a Verb is all heart. Digh will be signing books on Saturday, October 25 at Osondu Booksellers.
If you go Saturday, October 25, 1:00 p.m. Reading is free. Special lunch with the author (reservation only) $10/person at 12:30 p.m. Osondu Booksellers, 184 North Main St., downtown Waynesville. (828) 456-8062
“Soul is the very reason I write.”
Riley Schilliing
GR: My work is personal, therefore on some level it speaks to the political and the religious. I am usually not overtly political, yet I find my woman’s view has a political slant just by the very nature of whom I am and how I walk in the world next to how the world works. I am not religious at all, but I take God very seriously. Someone who once critiqued my work said I used the word “Soul” too much in my work. Soul is the very reason I write. It will appear again and again poem after poem, soul upon soul upon soul. RR: Describe your role as Honorary Chairperson for WNCAP (AIDS Project). GR: They nominate a person in the community every year to help raise the visibility of WNCAP during their annual “Raise Your Hand” fundraiser. I am honored and humbled to lend my hand. I will be writing a poem for the event. RR: Why poetry? Why not music or prose? GR: Poetry is compressed. It packs a punch. It suits my demeanor and my stature. It is not to say I do not love prose, but poetry entangles me, so that I lose myself in the unwinding. This is the true gift. After writing a strong poem, I feel like I have made a significant cre-
ation, that brings me close to myself. RR: If there’s one bit of wisdom you wish to offer your readers, what would that be? GR: Work and emit your brand of “special ness” in the world: that’s what you’re here to do. Do not look for anyone to bring to the table what you bring. Do not hand over your power, but seek powerful mentors who care about you and your work. Create and release. Create and release. It’s a wonderful cycle.
“A History of Hunting in the Great Smoky Mountains” by Bob Plott A booksigning and reading by Bob Plott will be held on Saturday, November 1, beginning at 3 p.m. at Osondu Booksellers, 184 N. Main, in“Under Waynesville, the Sun”NC. Glenis Redmond’s new book Meet the author at of poetry, on shelves at this special event — Malaprop’s Bookstore great for those who enjoy the outdoors. The perfect gift for hunters and outdoor enthusiasts.
Reel Take Reviewers:
For the latest reviews, theater info and movie show times, visit www.rapidrivermagazine.com
Chip Kaufmann is a film historian who also shares his love of classical music as a program host on WCQS-FM radio. Michelle Keenan is a long time student of film, a believer in the magic of movies and a fundraiser for public radio.
∑∑∑∑∑ - Fantastic ∑∑∑∑ - Pretty darn good ∑∑∑ - Has some good points ∑∑ - The previews lied ∑ - Only if you must M- Forget entirely
Sierra Bicking, our Teen Reviewer, prefers movies that show teenagers as brilliant and brave.
Questions/Comments?
You can email Chip or Michelle at reeltakes@hotmail.com
Burn After Reading ∑∑∑∑ Short Take: It’s not a Coen Brothers classic but it is a Coen Brothers original that Fargo fans in particular will likely enjoy.
Burn After Reading is a tongue-in-cheek, dark comedy replete with spies, low-lifes and morons, a few of whom embody all three Reel Take: After making the things. Some classic bursts brilliant but disturbingly dark of Coen Brothers violence No Country for Old Men, and the frequent use of the Burn After Reading was probf-word in all of its grammatably a breath of fresh air. It’s ical glory may be off-putting certainly a lark by comparison. to some moviegoers. If you It’s also clear that the brothers can think outside the box, weren’t the only ones having appreciate dark satire and fun; the whole star-studded enjoy both the goofy and cast seemed to have a ball. macabre elements of the Frances McDormand John Malkovich plays and Brad Pitt in Joel Coen Brothers you will, at Osborne Coxe a CIA operaand Ethan Coen's the very least, be entertained tive bent on writing a tell-all dark spy-comedy by Burn After Reading. memoir after getting demoted Burn After Reading. Rated R for pervasive lanand subsequently quitting. His guage, some sexual content life revolves around the upper and violence. crust Washingtonian / Chesapeake Bay Review by Michelle Keenan set, including his cold fish of a wife Katie (Tilda Swinton) and her philandering lover Harry (George Clooney) a stupid, Elegy ∑∑∑1/2 chronically horny, self aggrandizing, paranoid US Marshall. Back in the real Short Take: A false world, two gym workers (Frances Mcending can’t ruin this character study filled with Dormand and Brad Pitt) find Coxe’s CD fine performances. with the early scribblings of his memoir and his bank account information. Linda Reel Take: I haven’t read is a single woman of a certain age who Philip Roth’s novel The thinks the cure to all her woes is plastic Dying Animal (the book surgery and liposuction. Chad is Linda’s the movie is based on) and dim-witted, gym jockey sidekick. ThinkI don’t plan to, but I’m cuing they’ve stumbled across something rious as to whether it ends very top secret, they embark on a madcap the same way. If it does, I quest to return it and collect a reward. hope that it comes across differently, beRichard Jenkins plays their boss and is the cause it’s the ending that sabotages Elegy only voice of reason in the entire film. which is too bad. Until the final reel it With that the stage is set for an inwas quite a good movie. cestuously webbed story of zaniness and Ben Kingsley plays a divorced macabre satire. There are zero degrees professor who turned his back on his of separation among the characters, yet family long ago. He has become an aging none of them know it. When the absurdly Lothario who romances his students silly shenanigans create a stir at the CIA, while carrying on a long term affair with the CIA superior (the always great J.K. a woman (Patricia Clarkson) who loves Simmons) says, “Report back to me when him even though he won’t commit. …something makes sense.” The line gets a Then Penelope Cruz enters the picture lot of laughs, but comedy aside, therein lies and he becomes obsessed with her. And the point.
Reel Take: Frozen
so begins another older man/ younger woman romance which propels the rest of the film. Elegy is essentially a character study of Kingsley and the people in his circle of New York intellectuals. The dialogue and characters are like Woody Allen but without humor or irony. Kingsley’s character is constantly discussing Cruz with his poet friend George (Dennis Hopper) who tells him to move on just as he has done in his many affairs but the professor can’t. He is trapped by the feelings he has covered up for far too long. Kingsley is very good at playing intense, erudite characters and Elegy proves to be no exception. This is probably Penelope Cruz’s best role since Volver and she makes the most of it, exploring and enjoying her character immensely. The real surprise though is Dennis Hopper who may just have given the performance of his career (at 71) as Kingsley’s philandering poet buddy. Unfortunately these fine performances along with Isabel Coixet’s sensitive direction are undermined by the final half hour which doesn’t ring true to what’s come before it. I’m not sure who’s to blame, but it really doesn’t matter; Elegy is worth seeing whether you do or don’t like the ending. I report, you decide. Rated R for sexuality, nudity, and language. Review by Chip Kaufmann
Frozen River ∑∑∑∑
Short Take: A well done but somewhat cold independent film about an unlikely friendship between a financially desperate white woman and a poor Mohawk woman and the drastic measures they take to overcome their unfortunate circumstances.
River was the big winner at this year’s Sundance Film Festival. While it was a worthwhile effort, I am a little surprised that it won the grand prize. Perhaps it was because it exemplifies what a well made, independent film can do, or maybe it was because of its socially relevant issues – poverty, race and immigration. In a rural NY border town just days before Christmas, Ray (Melissa Leo) wakes up to find out her gambling addicted husband has left and taken their life savings with him. She is left with her fifteen year-old and five year-old sons and a doublewide about to be delivered. To Ray the house is the symbol of living the dream and being able to provide a decent home for her sons. When she sees her husband’s car at a high stakes bingo hall on a nearby Mohawk Reservation, she thinks she can at least retrieve some of their money before he loses it all. Instead she encounters Lila (Misty Upham) a young Mohawk woman who decides to take the car for her own after seeing Ray’s husband get on a bus and leave the keys in the car. From here the story moves to a new level, blurring socio and political lines and forging an unlikely friendship between these two women. Lila is a young widow whose child has been taken away from her. She smuggles illegal aliens from Canada into the US through Mohawk territory across the frozen Saint Lawrence River. Ray, desperate not to lose her deposit and to have the house delivered in time for Christmas, decides to team up with Lila. At first all is well and things are looking good. They need to do just one more run and they’re out of the business. This, of course, is when things go wrong. Leo and Upham turn in very real, ‘Movies’ continued on pg 26
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tion that we (the audience) never see them (he and leading lady) kiss. “No one wants to see that.” he said. raw performances. Frozen River is a bleak Gervais plays Bertram Pincus a story and it easily held my attention, but dentist and all-round miserable sod. their plights didn’t grab my heartstrings He doesn’t want to talk to anybody and the way I expected them to. I empathized doesn’t want anyone to talk to him. and cared about what happened, but After a routine colonoscopy Bertram is never felt emotionally connected to them. suddenly barraged by lots of somebodI didn’t even really like them. What I felt ies and soon realizes they’re all dead. more moved by were the general injusTurns out Bertram actually died on tices depicted in the film. Upon further the table for about seven minutes and introspection, maybe that was the point. he is now somehow a portal to the Rated R for some language land of the living. (The maddeningly Review by Michelle Keenan funny conversation between Bertram and the litigious-conscious hospital staff is a great scene in and of itself) One dead guy Ghost Town ∑∑∑∑ in particular pursues Bertram relentlessly. The tuxedo clad cad Frank Herlihy (Greg Short Take: Ricky Gervais gives an unoriginal, formulaic romantic comedy Kinnear) is no Cary Grant a la Topper, story a fresh take and make it worth but rather a philandering husband who watching. now needs to make amends with his a wife (Tea Leoni) Reel Take: The eleand thwart her wedding ments of the romantic plans with her new fiancé. comedy Ghost Town He bribes Bertram to help are familiar and seemhim with the promise that ingly formulaic: a he’ll get all the other ghosts man suddenly imbued to leave him alone if he’ll do with the ability to see this one thing. dead people, a dead This is all easier said husband, and a pretty than done, and of course widow. What sets this Ricky Gervais, Tea Leone Bertram, who lives in the and Greg Kinnear star in story apart from other same building as Frank’s Ghost Town. romantic comedies wife Gwen, falls in love with is its unconventional her. It goes without saying that along the leading man Ricky Gervais. Gervais, best way Bertram’s Grinchy ways fade and a know in the US as the creator and star of new Bertram emerges. It’s how Gervais the British version of The Office, was so plays it and how the story actually unfolds stunned to be asked to be the romantic that makes Ghost Town better than many lead, he purportedly agreed on the condiefforts in the rom-com genre. Rated PG-13 for some strong language, sexual humor and drug references
Theatre Directory
Asheville Pizza & Brewing Company Movieline (828) 254-1281 www.ashevillepizza.com Beaucatcher Cinemas (Asheville) Movieline (828) 298-1234 Carmike 10 (Asheville) Movieline (828) 298-4452 www.carmike.com Cinebarre (Asheville) www.cinebarre.com The Falls Theatre (Brevard) Movieline (828) 883-2200 Fine Arts Theatre (Asheville) Movieline (828) 232-1536 www.fineartstheatre.comm Flat Rock Theatre (Flat Rock) Movieline (828) 697-2463 www.flatrockcinema.com Four Seasons (Hendersonville) Movieline (828) 693-8989 Smoky Mountain Cinema (Waynesville) Movieline (828) 452-9091 26 October 2008
Review by Michelle Keenan
Righteous Kill ∑∑∑
Short Take: The teaming of these two acting legends is no cause for celebration.
Reel Take: DeNiro! Pacino! That’s
how this movie was promoted and to be fair that’s all they could really do with it. Without them, Righteous Kill, would be a subpar cop thriller that would be quickly forgotten. It might be anyway. DeNiro & Pacino play two longtime NYPD veterans (where else?) who must solve a series of vigilante crimes where various criminals, freed by the courts on technicalities, are found murdered. That in itself is way into been there/done that territory, and the fact that it’s a rogue cop is no revelation either. Neither is the ending which any crime show enthusiast will see coming a mile off. So what’s the point?
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The point is to watch the two old pros go through the motions in the hope that we can catch a glimpse of what made them great. And we do. After all this is DeNiro and Pacino we’re talking about. They have made their share of bad movies but neither actor could ever
be without interest. From a technical standpoint, the film is uneven. The appropriate Noir look is there from dark streets to claustrophobic interiors, but the editing is an annoyance. In order to appeal to a younger, more hip audience, there’s a lot of fast cutting, black & white/color switching and other video tricks that ultimately undermine the film by distracting us. The supporting performances are better than they should be considering the material, with good work turned in by John Leguizamo and Brian Dennehy. Carla Guigino is essentially wasted in a thankless role as DeNiro’s policewoman lover. There’s also Curtis Jackson a.k.a. rapper 50 Cent playing a (surprise!) drug dealing/club owner/informant who proves to be the undoing of the killer. In the end, Righteous Kill was designed as a star vehicle and that’s really all it has going for it. Worth a look but if you must see it, wait for it to come out on DVD. Rated R for violence, language, sexuality, and drug use. Review by Chip Kaufmann
The Women ∑∑∑
Short Take: A modern day remake of the 1939 classic.
Reel Take: As someone who was initially dreading seeing Diane English’s (TV’s Murphy Brown) 16-years-in-the-making, modern day adaptation of The Women, I was pleasantly surprised. It was more palatable than many reviews implied and it’s far more relevant to today’s woman than the 1939 version. When Clare Booth Luce’s play was adapted for the silver screen in 1939 it remained in tact. Luce (herself of the privileged class and the wife of Time
Magazine founder and publisher Henry Luce) satirized the lives Manhattan’s elite, high society ladies and those that wanted to be high society. The 1939 film featured Norma Shearer, Rosalind Russell and Joan Crawford in an over the top caddy, melodramatic estrogen fest (see MK’s DVD pick of the month for more). The new version features Meg Ryan, Annette Benning and Eva Mendes as the three central characters. Debra Messing, Jada Pinkett Smith, Bette Midler and Candice Bergen round out the cast. The central story remains the same – high society lady (worthy of Page Six gossip) finds out her husband is cheating on her and her friends rally around her. Gone are the bitchy, Jungle Red claws, in are Oprah Book Club-like friendships. Being the 21st century there is now more emphasis on Mary’s (Meg Ryan) recovery from heartache and the discovery of herself. The character of Mary’s best friend Sylvia (Annette Benning) was completely declawed and neutered. In doing so it makes her more likeable, but a lot less fun. Fortunately a money grubbing mistress is still a money-grubbing mistress. While Eva Mendes is no Joan Crawford, her character remains the same. Mary’s relationships with her mother and daughter have also been given a face-lift, and Candice Bergen turns in a nice performance as Mary’s mother. While I think it would have been more appropriate to say this movie was inspired by the play by Clare Boothe Luce, they did make it suit mainstream audiences of 2008, and said audience seemed to like it. In fact, my opinion (as a writer) that the movie should have ended before it did, and that the last scene – a loud, obnoxious child birthing scene – was completely unnecessary, didn’t mesh with audience reaction. They loved it and went home smiling. At then end of the day, that’s what’s important. Rated PG-13 for sex-related material, language, some drug use Review by Michelle Keenan
Traitor ∑∑∑1/2
Short Take: Topical spy thriller takes itself a little too seriously but Cheadle is great as always.
Reel Take: Traitor has gotten a bum rap
from a lot of critics and I just can’t see it. The film is well crafted and contains several fine performances although the plot about planted terrorists setting off bombs is remarkably similar to Don Siegel’s 1977 thriller Telefon (planted Soviet agents set off explosions across the U.S.) which was made at that time as pure entertainment. ‘Movies’ continued on next pg
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FILM REVIEWS Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde
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Times have changed. Although the movie is essentially a vehicle for Don Cheadle, he allows the other performers to keep pace without outdistancing them. Guy Pearce, who has been absent from films for awhile, is in good form as an FBI agent who tries to understand the Terrorist mindset in order to track them down. Jeff Daniels is also quite good as an Intelligence chief with a secret. The best supporting performance, however, comes from Said Taghmaouri as a terrorist leader who knows what he must do and why he must do it.
Don Cheadle and Jeff Daniels exchange sensitive information in Traitor.
The aforementioned plot has Cheadle infiltrate a group of terrorists in order to stop their master plan. He is a practicing Muslim with an axe to grind (terrorists killed his father when he was a child). He also does this not because he loves America but because, as a firm believer of the true principles of Islam, he knows that killing innocent people is not one of them. The movie builds to a suspenseful climax which for me was cleverly handled although most critics disagreed finding it contrived and unbelievable. To them I say, it’s only a movie, and it puts entertainment first and message second. Writer/director Jeffrey Nachmanoff (The Day After Tomorrow) occasionally gets a little heavy handed and Don Cheadle does come awfully close to becoming Sidney Poitier, but not enough to ruin the film. Rated PG-13 for violent sequences, thematic material, and brief language. Review by Chip Kaufmann
Transsiberian ∑∑∑∑
Short Take: Hitchcock style thriller has a few new twists and a great performance from Emily Mortimer.
Reel Take: I have only seen one other
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Starring John Barrymore (1920)
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This silent film version of the classic story is still scary after all these years.
f John Barrymore is remembered at all today by non-movie buffs, it’s either as a reference to his older brother Lionel (Mr Potter in It’s A Wonderful Life) or to his well-known granddaughter Drew Barrymore (who bears a strong resemblance to him). Turn back the clock to the 1920s and 30s though and he was a respected stage actor turned matinee idol who created a number of classic performances while living a high profile, self-destructive lifestyle. He died in 1942 at the age of 60. Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde was the first of his great roles to be captured on film. This was back in 1920 when the studio system was just getting started and films were still made on the East coast. Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde was shot at Paramount studios in New York during the day, while Barrymore was starring in Shakespeare’s Richard III on Broadway at night. There is more than a touch of Richard in his Edward Hyde as anyone familiar with the play can readily see. Barrymore threw himself into both of these vehicles with such intensity that he was hospitalized for exhaustion when they were done. Although the film is tame by today’s standards and is deliberately melodramatic (this and later versions with Frederic March and Spencer Tracy add a love interest not in Robert Louis Stevenson’s
TEEN REVIEW Igor ∑∑
original story), there are still many fascinating aspects to Barrymore’s characterizations. His Doctor Jekyll is strikingly handsome (showing off his celebrated profile to good advantage) and extremely well-mannered. This contrasts nicely with the totally degenerate Hyde who becomes more hideous after each transformation and whose acts become more and more violent. His look of triumph after a brutal murder is still unsettling today. Available for years (when you could find it) in second and third rate public domain VHS copies, Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde can now be obtained in two high quality versions on DVD. The first one was released by Image Entertainment in 1999 and is the most complete version available. It was taken from a good 16mm print which is properly tinted (silent films were often color tinted to enhance the mood) and features an organ score from legendary silent film accompanist Gaylord Carter. The other is the 2001 Kino International Deluxe Collector’s Edition which has a better picture (taken from 35mm) although it’s missing 7 minutes of footage from the Image edition. It does have
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the advantage of an orchestral score plus loads of extras including a Stan Laurel parody and is the one I recommend. Both are readily available to purchase or to rent. For more details on both go to –silentera.com- and click on DVD up at the top. Be advised that there are several public domain DVDs out there as well and if it’s not Kino or Image then don’t bother. Later this month (just in time for Halloween), you’ll have the opportunity to experience a big screen showing of the 1999 Image version of the film on Sunday afternoon October 26 at 3 p.m. in the Porter Center for the Performing Arts at Brevard College. It will feature live organ accompaniment on the Center’s magnificent pipe organ by Vance Reese and there will be an introduction as well as a post-film Q&A session hosted by yours truly. Tickets are $10 each and $5 for children. For more information call the Porter Center at (828) 884-8330.
Section co-editor Chip Kaufmann is a film historian who also shares his love of classical music on public radio station WCQS-FM.
by Sierra Bicking
all hunchbacks have to be Igors, the servants of mad When I saw the movie scientists. When his emtrailer for Igor, it seemed to ployer blows himself up, Igor be a cute animated film for decides to create something kids about a downtrodden, himself in order to enter the hunchbacked servant of a Fair. Little did he know what mad scientist — a kind of kind of thing he would end monstrous Cinderella, if you up creating… Sierra Bicking is will. But when I walked into Frankly, I thought that the theatre (me being the only an arte aficionado extraordinaire. Igor didn’t fit the age group patron there, I might add), that it targeted. The film had I received a quite different way too much talk of suicide, murder, impression, but not for the better. body parts getting ripped off and death Igor is the story of a servant who as if they meant nothing, giving little, aids a mad scientist in creating the impressionable kids the message that ultimate evil invention for the “Mad it’s cool to destroy things. Happily, like Scientist’s Fair.” He has always had the most kid’s movies these days, good triimpossible dream of becoming an evil umphs over evil in the end. Woo-hoo. scientist himself, but is cursed by the Igor had more to offer adults, with giant hump upon his back. In his world,
good animation and character voices by legendary actors like John Cusack. Also, the characters were bizarrely creative, although somewhat similar to those in the movie Nightmare Before Christmas. This movie may have been a play on the Frankenstein story, but had its own twisted twist. Overall, however, I’d advise you to save your money and go invest it on some better invention of your own.
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Chip Kaufmann’s Pick: “The Brothers Grimm”
The Brothers Grimm Fantastic take on the origins of the fairy tales and features Matt Damon and Heath Ledger as the title characters
Emily Mortimer hangs on for dear life in Transsiberian.
was The Machinist (2004) with Christian Bale. It was a harrowing experience that was hard to forget. Transsiberian falls into the same category but is a lot more audience friendly (with the exception of one torture scene which is hard to take.) As a director Anderson has critical respectability but no box office clout. This film had a modest budget that was financed by several small European studios. Woody Harrelson and Emily Mortimer are known quantities but they are not stars. Ben Kingsley has marquee value, but only with older audiences. The film has received only a limited American release despite receiving positive reviews, so we in Western North Carolina are lucky to have it. The story of an American couple returning from China and becoming mixed up with heroin smugglers and Russian police is deliberately full of Alfred Hitchcock like touches. The story is assisted by the trains themselves which are so realistically shot that they become characters in the unfolding drama. The film was shot on location in the backwaters of Lithuania which looks incredibly menacing, especially so in winter. Woody Harrelson and Ben Kingsley turn in fine performances. Harrelson as the mild mannered, devoted husband has a difficult role to pull off but he does. Ben Kingsley, as a Russian narcotics officer, gets to add another ethnic portrayal to his resume’. He brings his trademark intensity to the role. But the film belongs to Emily Mortimer who shows what she can do when given a role with range and depth just like in Dear Frankie. Like most small, independent movies, Transsiberian is receiving very little press and is playing in only one theatre in town. Try and catch it in the on the big screen while it’s here because the sense of claustrophobia and unease is definitely palpable. If you can’t see it on the big screen, look for it on DVD in the near future. Rated R for language and violence including torture. Review by Chip Kaufmann
28 October 2008
As you go looking for Halloween fare at the end of this month, check out Terry Gilliam’s fantastic take on the origins of some of the Grimm’s most famous stories. When I say fantastic, I mean not only the movie itself but the nature of what happens within it. It also contains a pair of fine performances from Matt Damon and Heath Ledger. In Gilliam’s version, the brothers make their living as 18th century “exorcists”. They travel throughout Germany dispatching small town witches and demons… for a fee. The trick is that these are spooks which they have created and that makes for a lucrative, self-perpetuating business. That is until they encounter real life magic which will become the basis of the stories we know. The two stars play off each other very well with Damon as Wilhelm, the logical brother and Ledger as Jacob, the fanciful one. In a surprisingly moving prologue, we discover why the brothers are the way they are and why they can’t function without each other. In addition to the fairy tale background, Gilliam introduces Jonathan Pryce as an occupying French general who just wants to bring “a little law and order” to the surroundings by repressing everything and everyone in sight. As a rational man of the Age of Reason, fairy
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DVD Picks of the Month
Michelle Keenan’s Pick: “The Women”
tales are superstitions of the past and have no place in the modern world. The integration of the well known fairy tales into the everyday world is ingenious and not without its truly terrifying moments. Some of the special effects are genuinely disturbing and hard to forget (check out the Gingerbread Man) which makes this film an ideal Halloween treat. Rent this one and then watch it more than once. It’s even better the second time around.
get by all that and just enjoy the posh sets and the glamorous fashions, they’ll have a great time. Even to audiences of the 1930’s the ridiculous wealth of the high society ladies wasn’t particularly relevant but it was fun to watch. What was relevant to women everywhere were the values of the day and roles the women played. After being the last to learn that her husband is having an affair, Mary Haines (Norma Shearer) is determined to hold on to her husband. Along the way she learns who is friend, who is foe and the bitter truth of her social set. There’s also a jaunt to Reno, a divorce, a fabulous fashion show (in Technicolor no less!) and a dishing out just desserts. The Women (1939) Rosalind Russell plays the Initially I had planned conniving gossip hound and on selecting a Halloween fair-weather friend Sylvia Fowlappropriate flick for this er and Joan Crawford plays the issue, but upon leaving cunning other woman, Crystal The Women and hearing Allen. Among the supportseveral different groups of ing cast are character actress women, saying, “Now I Mary Boland, the wonderfully want to see the original,” I comedic Paulette Goddard, decided my pick would be a young Joan Fontaine, Ruth George Cukor’s 1939 verJoan Crawford, Hussey, and even gossip colsion of The Women. Norma Shearer, and umnist Hedda Hopper making I think many women Rosalind Russell an appearance as what else – a who have not seen the glam it up in the columnist. The whole thing 1939 version of original and now seek it is great fun. While the new The Women. out will be in for quite a version of The Women focuses surprise. In some ways it’s more on friendship, the original ravremarkably out of touch with women ages and challenges it. There has never today and some of the melodramatic actbeen a convergence of such cattiness on ing is a little over the top as well (one has the silver screen before or since and it’s to remember all of these ladies started perfectly bedecked in Jungle Red! acting in the silent era). But if they can
Stephen King’s “Misery” Opens 35below’s Season
dapted by Simon Moore, the stage version of Stephen King’s thriller Misery is a sinister and deeply-twisted tale of obsession. Popular romance novelist Paul Sheldon is driving to Colorado to work on his latest novel when he crashes on a snowy road. His rescuer is Annie Wilkes, the “number one fan” of his fictional heroine, Misery Chastain. On top of being a retired nurse, Annie is also psychotic and she torments Paul into writing a new book. When Paul rebels or sets off one of Annie’s many emotional triggers, she teaches him the true meaning of misery all over again, in increasingly horrifying ways. This stunning adaptation of the classic thriller is a tour de force for actors, and the intimacy
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of the 35below space will keep the audience on the edge of their seat. “Though audiences will certainly be familiar with the novel and the film, the stage version adds an extra element of tension,“ says Jenny Bunn, Program Director of Asheville Community Theatre. “35below is a very small space, and you’re never more than a few feet away from the action.” Stephen King is the author of more than fifty bestsellers. His book Misery was successfully adapted for the screen in 1990; the film starred James Caan and Kathy Bates, who won an Academy Award for her performance. Misery is directed by Susan Dillard, and stars Cary Nichols (Cat on a Hot Tin Roof, Run For Your Wife) as Annie
Wilkes and Jonathan Ray (Someone Who’ll Watch Over Me, Moon Over Buffalo) as Paul Sheldon. The set and costumes are designed by Katie Fuller, with lighting design by Brian Sneeden.
If you go Misery will be performed October 2-25 with shows on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights at 8:00 p.m. in 35below at Asheville Community Theatre. 35 E. Walnut St. in downtown Asheville. Tickets are $15 for adults and $10. Misery is recommended for mature audiences only. Tickets may be purchased online at www.ashevilletheatre.org, or by calling the ACT Box Office at (828) 254-1320.
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REstaurants & Wine In Defense of Syrah Palin Plus, Notes from the Art Museum Tasting In a San Francisco wine bar called Yield, sales of a Chilean red wine called Palin Syrah have taken a nosedive since Senator John McCain announced his running mate. Never mind the fact that the winery has been around since long before the Alaskan Governor gained her fame, or that the word “palin” refers to a hockey-like game played by the Mapuche people of Chile, and the ball, which is pictured and even described, in English, on the label. Didn’t we go through this crap four years ago, when certain other people stopped buying Heinz ketchup, and the company had to issue a nothing-to-do-with-her statement? If the Palin winery wants to improve its sales, it had better go ahead and aim for the people who like her. They could even switch the words around to Syrah Palin. As far as the jokes go, the owner of Yield Wine Bar has heard enough about the wine’s gun powder nose and how well it would accompany moose meat (just like the guy at the ABC store, who has heard enough about that Effen Vodka from Holland). This takes me back to 1994, to the release of Gundlach Bundschu Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve 1990. It was one of the most memorable labels ever, a collage of black-and-white photos of the distinguished faces of Native American chiefs. A freshly college-educated girl spoke her disgust to me over the capitalist exploitation of the Native American via this bottle, and further bewailed the word “Reserve” on the label.
I have no reservation in recommending these wines: < Sparkling Il, Prosecco, Italy NV ($12.50 ) That’s spelled with a capital I and a little l, and it’s a delightful glass of fizz. Dry, pleasant on the nose with a little peach, pleasant on the
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tongue with bubbles from nowhere and otherwise good texture. Drink this at Modesto with Hector’s splendid tapas-style items. Canella, Prosecco, Italy NV ($18) This Prosecco is a little more complex, even with a touch of minerals, like the garganega grapes were grown in chalky soil. Good, if a little pricey, and preferred to be drunk with food. Jean-Luc Joillot, Cremant de Bourgogne NV This is a delicious, creamy glass of sparkling wine from Burgundy. It is two-thirds pinot noir, hence the body and texture that makes this a good alternative to a real Champagne. < Pink Fontanavecchia, Aglianico Rosato, Italy 2007($10) This is a high-quality pink wine. Made from the aglianico grape, it has impressive texture and well-rounded fruit flavors that are typical of rosé wine, but certainly not stereotypical. < White Pieropan, Soave, Italy 2005 ($18) This wine is a lesson or reminder in the need to notice and know the details. This is not the cheap Soave your parents bought in the 70’s. At three years old, it has developed a slightly honeyed taste as a result of ageing. If you like that aged-white taste, then go for it. Of course, you’ll get fresher flavor in a newer vintage. Ask your wine seller. Babich, Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough, New Zealand 2007 ($14) This sauvignon is of the grapefruity sort. Some tasted it as the grassy sort, but they were wrong. It is complexly layered with numerous tropical fruit flavors and the taste lingers nicely. Hess Select, Sauvignon Blanc, Lake County, California 2007 ($11) I love Lake County sauvignon for a typical grass-andgrapefruit balance, plus particularly the melon-like nuances. Good body at 14.5% alcohol with a small percentage fermented in
oak, and a great taste with perhaps creamier typical white-wine food. Murphy-Goode, Sauvignon Blanc “The Fume”, Alexander Valley, California 2007 ($11) This is the grassier style of sauvignon, with some nice citrus notes making it crisp and nice. Soledoro, Sicilia Bianco, Sicily NV ($6.50) Light and dry, lemony and clean. This simple white, a 50-50 blend of grecanico and cataratto, is non-vintage and not meant for any ageing. < Red Toscolo, Chianti, Italy 2005 ($12) My tasting notes from the Art Museum tasting say “Right-on!” This almost inexpensive red delivered the herbaceous fresh fruit I expected of a three year old Chianti for the money. Someone said there was a tobacco nuance, indeed there was. La Calle, “Campo Beo” Toscano Rosso, NV ($13) Made from sangiovese, canaiolo, and ciliegiolo grapes. Very smooth. Domain Tortochot, Bourgogne Pinot Noir “Cuvee Fine” 2006 In this bottle is a good dark color and nice flavor, if a little young. A reliable local importer brings us this, pointing out that it is a declassified Gevrey-Chambertin, the world-famous appellation that was the source of Napoleon’s favorite wine. Because of the fame of the name, there are a lot of producers and inconsistent quality. Always ask your wine shop staff for help in this region. Hess Select, Syrah, Monterey County, California 2006 ($14) A red that is as dark as the fruits in its flavors. Nice pepper on the side as well, with the right kind of tannic structure. A cool weather region has produced a wine fit for a hearty hot meal. Colomé, Estate Malbec, Argentina 2006 ($20+) For those of you who enjoy a manly malbec, this is blended with a little cabernet sauvignon and tannat for a great texture and really good spice on the nose. The grapes are grown under the supervision of Hess in the world’s highest vineyards, above 10,000 feet. This wine is on fire and worth the splurge.
October Events at the Weinhaus Reservations are required for these events unless otherwise noted. Call the Weinhaus at (828) 254-6453. Monday, October 13 Sinbad restaurant in Hendersonville will host a Mediterranean and French inspired wine dinner with wines provided by the Weinhaus. Time is 7:00 p.m. The cost is $60 all inclusive. Thursday, October 16th An Octoberfest beer dinner will be held at the Bavarian Lodge which features hearty and home made German foods. It will be accompanied by Octoberfest beers provided by the Weinhaus. Time is 7:00 p.m. The cost is $50 all inclusive. Saturday, October 18 The Weinhaus will have a free wine tasting from 2 to 4 p.m. featuring “Red Wines from Washington State”. The location is 86 Patton Ave, Asheville, NC. Wednesday, October 22 Zambra’s well known and respected tapas bar will serve a fine wine dinner accompanied by wines from the Weinhaus. Time is 7:00 p.m. The cost is $60 all inclusive. The Weinhaus 86 Patton Ave., in Asheville (828) 254-6453
Our FREE Saturday tastings continue at The Wine Guy South, every Saturday, from 4-6 p.m. Every week we invite a different distributor to pour 4 or 5 new wines from their portfolio for us to sample. Light hors d’oeuvres will be served and all wines poured will be specially priced. www.theashevillewineguy.com
555 Merrimon Ave. (828) 254-6500 1200 Hendersonville Rd. (828) 277-1120 Asheville, North Carolina Vol. 12, No. 2 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — October 2008 29
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Asheville Shops The Healing Powers of Aromatherapy at Biltmore Coffee Traders
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iltmore Cofby Beth Gossett fee Traders is more than your that special someaverage coffeeone, Bridgett will be house. Located creating gift boxes just south of with aromatherapy the Biltmore House products and cofat 518 Hendersonfee for the holiday ville Road, Biltmore season. Stop by and Coffee Traders offers see what Bridgett is fresh in-store roasted cooking up. coffees (so you know Speaking of every cup of joe is cooking, if you sufsheer perfection). fer from allergies When you walk or asthma Bridgett in, (or use the drive has just the ticket up window) you are Bridgett Putt-Bounds, owner of for you. It’s called greeted not only by Biltmore Coffee Traders. a Constant Temthe heavenly smell of perature Catalytic fresh ground coffee, but of more exotic Burner. It’s an old-fashioned way to deingredients as well. The exotic ingrediliver aromatherapy, but it also gets rid of ents come from Biltmore Coffee Tradallergens and eats flu viruses and bacteria. ers owner, Bridgett Putt-Bounds side It works by dispersing heat without naked project, making wonderfully aromatic flame (it also burns alcohol, so no soot) aromatherapy lotions, shampoos, face from a platinum ceramic composite head. creams, scrubs and spritzers. She even makes a coffee blend product that works How It Works: on wrinkles and cellulite! A constant combustion temperature Making the aromatherapy products of 60 degrees Celsius at the center of the is a labor of love for Bridgett, classically catalytic head is most effective in releastrained as a nurse, she took a two-year ing essential oils and Phytoncidere which internet course to learn as much about combines with odors, bacteria and radicals aromatherapy as she could because as she to eliminate them, not just cover them up. so eloquently put it, “it’s my job to keep At 300 to 320 degrees Celsius the outer people healthy.” Bridgett went on to say ring releases the properties of the unique that she got started using aromatherapy blend of essential oils which work to products when her children were small improve to air quality in the surrounding and remarkably they’ve never been sick. environment. So, she swears by it. Essentially, the heat bonds with the Bridgett creates 8 different standard molecules in the room and makes them blends: Meditation, Immune Boost, neutral. According to the EPA, dust mites Sensual (Rebalancing), Mental Clarity, have a 99% mortality rate after 90 minRelaxation, Detox, Awakening, Sports utes of exposure; e. coli, a 99% mortality Blend and a Lavender Lotion, but she rate after 3 hours; mold spores, 62.5-99% also can blend custom products based on mortality rate after 3 hours; cat odor, 56% your needs. reduction in odor after 3 hours; dog odor, So, what’s the difference between 33% reduction in odor after 3 hours; and these aromatherapy products and somesmoke particles, 99.9% removal after 30 thing you can pick up at Bath and Body minutes of exposure. Works? According to Bridgett, “it’s the If you are seeking a cleaner environpurity of the oils that you use. If the ment, or just want a great cup of coffee, oils aren’t pure then you get an inferior stop in and see Bridgett. product which can actually cause detriment to the body if you don’t know what you’re doing.” Biltmore Coffee Traders Eventually, Bridgett would like to get 518 Hendersonville Road into the research and design of oils and (828) 277-9227 their properties and really get into how pure oils must be to work effectively. Her Hours: goal is to educate the public on the uses of Mon-Fri 8-5 p.m.; Sat 9-5 p.m. Closed on Sundays aromatherapy. If you’re looking for a holistic gift for www.biltmorecoffee.com 30 October 2008
— Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — Vol. 12, No. 2
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ARTFUL LIVING Consciousness and Politics
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often speak about the crisis for individuals brought about by the egocentric psychological paradigm of modern times, but the psychology of individuals is really only an extension of the psychology of the society. We are looking at the micro-dimensional and the macro-dimensional constellations of consciousness. Individual consciousness is conditioned by societal consciousness, and societal consciousness is then the aggregate of individual consciousnesses. Politics is analogous to the problem-solving psychological processes of an individual brought to the collective dimension. Humanity is approaching an evolutionary crisis. An evolutionary crisis occurs for a species when its environment can no longer sustain the species in its existing form. Then, the form of the species either undergoes some radical evolution or it ceases to flourish, possibly becoming extinct. Humanity now faces such a crisis. The dominant evolutionary trait of humanity is consciousness, not, as in other species, some physical characteristic. It is the psychology of humanity that shapes its form, and its relationship to all other form. The presently dominant psychology, the egocentric consciousness of individuals and societies seeking to accumulate as much significance, wealth and power for themselves as they can, has run out of room. The planet is no longer able to sustain the insatiable, voracious appetite of human beings and their institutions. We teeter on the brink of devastating consequences. The collective, that is, the political, consciousness we bring to recognizing and addressing this crisis will determine the quality, possibly even the fact, of future existence for humanity. Our profit-based economic system and its accompanying belligerently competitive social attitudes are unsuited to addressing the issues we face moving into the 21st Century. We Americans must reassess our values. We must expand beyond our historic motivating vision of unbounded individual financial opportunity and personal dominance to one that enfolds every person in the basic dignities of peace, personal
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security, civil liberties and a sustainable economy. We are too many on too small a planet. Competition with its accompanying conflicts and inequities can no longer be the dominant social paradigm. Meaningful work, secure homes, health-care, education, respect and caring within the bosom of a healthy, beautiful and sustaining environment for every person must become our template. This is necessary if we are to have a future that not only sustains, but also begins restoring dignity and sanity to the human experience, now sacrificed to the psychological insecurity inherent in our mass consumer economy and trash media. Our economy must refocus into meaningful jobs that support this vision. Wealth must be shared in compassionate generosity, not concentrated in the hands of the most ambitious. The corporate/bureaucratic stranglehold on American life must be broken. It is totalitarian and predatory in nature. Small shop businesses where people have more individual choice, creativity and control must replace the dehumanizing cubicle hell of modern commerce. The law profession must be reclaimed from being a criminal-punishing craps-shoot and highstakes-money-grabbing game to the search for real redemption and justice. Medical care must be recognized as a right, not a blackmail scheme provided to those able and willing to pay the high dollar ransom held against their health and fear of death. Careers in the arts, education, culture, small farming and human services must be valued and supported. Universal life-long education that focuses not only on technology and work, but also on the arts, culture and mindful living is necessary to advance not only human technology, but also the human soul. Decentralization into villages and towns within the vast city/state structures
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Bill Walz
of modern life is necessary to revitalize social continuity and human scale community. Politics is consciousness. It always has been. The end of hereditary aristocracy, the struggles against slavery, racism, sexism, and worker exploitation are all examples of a new, more expansive consciousness transforming the political landscape. We must expand our consciousness to enfold the entire planet in a vision of kinship and compassion, of peace, sustainability, aesthetics and universal responsibility for even “the least among us”. This includes, not only the human poor, but also the animals, the plants and the Earth itself. Politics is the problem-solving process of a society, not a bad TV show as the corporate media has largely succeeded in making it. We need leaders who call us to a higher consciousness, not who manipulate our vanity and basest emotions. Slanderous accusations and distortions, dogmatic moral and nationalistic positions, straw-dog enemies, and calls to “Fight!” and “Keep your money!” rev the emotions, but they also divide and diminish us. What we need, if we are to evolve into a better future, is a coming together to a nobler consciousness that calls us to care for and share life’s blessings, not only within the nation, but also with the world. A politics that appeals to our lowest consciousness will bring the lowest results. There has been too much of this in recent years. War, a stumbling economy, domestic divisiveness and low world standing are the proof. We have become a population that functions more as a greedy rabble than a society. Any semblance of high culture, ethics and true spirituality is but a fading memory. Psychopathology and crime are rampant. A higher consciousness is humanity’s and this nation’s only hope. Much is at stake. The regressive side of history, or even the sidelines, is no place to be in this moment of humanity’s growing evolutionary crisis. Demand more from the politicians, the business-world, the educators and the media. Demand more of yourself. Push through the trash politics and become conscious of
what is really at stake. Humanity is devolving at present. A better future that contains the fulfillment of human potential is possible, but only if we reengage our basic evolutionary trait and become conscious. Only if we reclaim our society and our individual lives in the vision of that potential. Political choices are at hand. I hope America can evolve beyond the politics of small self-interest, division, fear, lies and slander that have controlled recent elections to select candidates who offer the possibility of not only a change in policies, but an expanded consciousness of America’s place in a shrinking world. Bill Walz is a UNCA adjunct faculty, College for Seniors and private-practice teacher of mindfulness, personal growth and consciousness. He holds a weekly meditation class, Mondays, 7 p.m. at the Friends Meeting House, 227 Edgewood. Info on classes and personal growth and healing instruction or phone consultations at (828) 258-3241, or e-mail at healing@billwalz. com. Visit www.billwalz.com
UNC Asheville Hosts “Celebrating India Day”
NC Asheville will celebrate the culture and heritage of India with two special events on October 24. Both are free and open to the public. “Passport to India” will be held from 11 a.m. to noon in UNC Asheville’s Alumni Hall, lower level of Highsmith Uni-
Classical Indian musician Kuntala Ray.
versity Union. The event will feature informational booths devoted to Indian food, clothes, music, dance and art presented by UNC Asheville students, faculty and staff. Accomplished classical Indian musicians Kuntala Ray and Dibyarka Chatterjee will perform at 7 p.m. in the Grotto, low-
er level of Highsmith University Union. The most senior student of Pandit Barun Kumar Pal, Ray is the only female hansa veena player in India. She performs traditional ragas, which are Indian classical music melodic modes. A performance by traditional Odissi dancer Pratibha Jena Singh will wrap up the evening concert. For more information, call UNC Asheville’s Cultural & Special Events Office at (828) 251-6991. Vol. 12, No. 2 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — October 2008 31
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Joe’s brew Notes Wedge Brewing Company and Tasting Room
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Industry, Art, Community and Superb Beer
he buildings of Asheville’s River District hold a diverse mix of light industry, music, restaurants, the arts and now – The Wedge Brewing Company. This recently-opened venue brings the art of craft brewing to the district with a tasting room designed to reflect and support the River Arts community. Tim Shaller, proprietor of the Wedge Brewing Company, grew up in New York where he owned and managed several businesses including a health food store, a restaurant, and a business renovating older homes. After work he would visit a neighborhood bar to meet with his friends and enjoy good conversation and a flavorful brew or two. In time his path led to Asheville where he became active in community affairs and met John Payne, late owner of the Wedge Building. Tim and John became fast friends and shared ideas and stories while enjoying a beer at their favorite pub, Dirty Jack’s (Green Man Brewing). In one of their conversations John suggested Tim open a brewery in his building (The Wedge). Well, that set the wheels in motion. Soon after, he learned that Carl Melissas, brewmaster, was leaving Green Man. Tim asked and Carl agreed to work with him on a new brewery; the Wedge Brewing Company was born. Carl has a varied background that includes rock musician, plumber, caterer, master chef, sommelier, and confirmed wine drinker. That is until he tasted the Belgium beer Piraat. This beer introduced him to the variety and rich flavors of Belgium and craft brews, converted his drink preference from wine to beer, and challenged him to develop his own beer recipes. Over time he became an award-winning home-brewer and entered the craft brew industry as an assistant brewer. He progressed to head brewer/brewmaster at a number of breweries/brewpubs and ultimately found his way to Asheville.
by Joe Zinich
and Hellesbock). My current favorites are the Iron Rail IPA (strong hop flavor, no lingering bitterness), Paynes Pale Ale (light bodied, smooth, slightly hoppy), and the Community Porter (rich, slightly sweet, chocolaty flavor, medium body). The Wedge Tim Shaller, proprietor, pouring a beer. Brewery tasting room is designed for relaxed Entry to the Wedge Brewing Company. But their commitment to authentic, high conversation – no quality, flavorful brews and a welcoming, TV’s, no loud music. Open the door (one sociable place to drink them will stay the of John Payne’s last works) and walk into Carl is a passionate brewer focused on same. So, bring some friends (or go and the u-shaped bar (made from reclaimed the creation of high quality beers with meet some new ones) to the Wedge and wood from bowling alley lanes) area. Seauthentic flavors. enjoy “Some Drinkin’ and Lyin’.” lect a beer from the list and look into the The Wedge Brewing Company was brewery as your beer is poured. The beer founded on two main principles – crecomes directly from the tanks you see on ation of flavorful beers and a hospitable the right. At the Wedge the beer is not Wedge Brewing Company place to enjoy them. The brewery itself is, stored in kegs before serving. It is served well, eye-catching, with sparkling silver 125 B Roberts Street directly from the conditioning tanks. and bright copper tanks in a space kept Asheville NC Large, tall windows fill the tastimmaculately clean (call to schedule a (828) 505.2792 ing room with plenty of natural light tour). Beers are produced with the highwedgebrewing.com to create an airy, relaxed feel. The est quality ingredients matched to the exposed brick walls hold the works of style of each beer. many local/regional artists. No food is For example, a German- or Czechserved but shelled peanuts are available. style pilsner will contain the exact same You’re welcome to bring or order your ingredients used to produce them in EuAsheville Beer Notes 101 own “picnic”. If the rope. Furthermore, one inside becomes a little Decoction mashing refers to removof the tanks allows for crowded (space for 25 ing a part of the mash, boiling it and decoction mashing (see – 35 people) or if it’s returning it to the main mash to Asheville Brew notes an especially nice eveincrease its temperature for the next 101 sidebar) which is the ning, step outside onto step in the brewing process. This traditional method of the veranda (former mashing procedure originates from a brewing pilsner styles. loading dock) set with time when malt quality was not conThe Wedge offers tables, umbrellas, and sistent and temperatures could not 5 beers regularly (Iron chairs. be measured. Although not necessary Rail IPA, Community The Wedge is new today, it is the traditional method Porter, Golem, Payne and still evolving (outthat continues to be used in many Pale Ale, and Pilsner) door movies, mobile European beer styles, especially in Guests “Drinkin’ and Lyin’” and 2 seasonal/specialty food vendors, etc.). Germany and the Czech Republic. in the tasting room. beers (currently Witt In essence, mashing is the brewing term for steeping malt and other grains in hot water to convert the starches from the grain into fermentable sugar. It is the first step in the brewing process. LaMotte’s concerts are warm, enterwill stop touring at the end of this year taining and varied, including image-rich to devote his primary focus to another of songs, engaging storytelling, humor, an his lifelong passions, peacemaking. Visit occasional poem and impressive instruwww.davidlamotte.com/promedia.html. For five years, Joe Zinich mental guitar work. This concert is part has been taking a selfof LaMotte’s year-long farewell tour. If you go: David LaMotte at The Waguided, high-intensity tour Recently named as a 2008 Rotary World tershed, 207 W. State Street. Tickets are of Asheville’s beer world. Peace Fellow, he has announced that $20. Call the Black Mountain Center Contact him at: jzinich@ after 2000 concerts on four continents he for the Arts (828) 669-0930. bellsouth.net
Black Mountain Musician David LaMotte to Perform Internationally acclaimed singer/songwriter David LaMotte will perform on Friday, October 24, at 7:30 p.m. as the final concert in the 2008 Black Mountain Center for the Arts’ UpBeat! Fourth Friday Musical Heritage Series. 32 October 2008
— Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — Vol. 12, No. 2
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Asheville Shops Asheville’s Susan Marie Designs P J. H Heads Downtown
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usan Marie Phipps has approached her move to downtown Asheville much the same as her work: one piece, carefully, at a time. The relocation to a larger space this month comes after three decades of designing and making jewelry and several years in Biltmore Village, where she has served a loyal and steadily growing client base. They come for her custom-made gold or platinum and gemstone designs, which she creates onsite, at her store. An award-winning designer who’s been creating and selling jewelry since high school, Phipps is a G.I.A. graduate gemologist and a master goldsmith but she shies away from the titles.
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discuss what they like”), Phipps will make wax models of two or three different designs to give each customer a choice. “It’s a lot of extra work, but it makes it easier for you to visualize the finished piece and be comfortable with your choice,” she said. “I make your vision come to life. “I design with the idea that every day is a special occasion, a celebration of life, so I make each piece suitable for everyday wear — comfortable and durable as well as beautiful.” Meanwhile, Phipps considers handmade jewelry as wearable art. “I create miniature sculptures,” she said. “I’m an artist first.”
Grand Re-Opening Celebration, Friday, October 3, from 5-8 p.m. The Artist at Work
Jewelry designer Susan Marie Phipps.
Meanwhile, it’s clear that she is doing well. She’ll have 600 square feet more space in the new store and she’ll be in good company — near her friends at Ariel Gallery and other downtown galleries — and traffic into her store will likely increase, she said. As a member of the Southern Highland Craft Guild — a group of more than 900 craftspeople in nine southeastern states — she said fellow jewelry makers “inspire each other,” describing the group as a “supportive family.” “Each goldsmith or silversmith has a different style and I can send customers who want something different, to someone else,” she added. Phipps describes her own style as “a classic, simplistic style with a contemporary edge and a clean line — timeless pieces that aren’t going to go out of style.” A portion of Phipps’ business is custom orders — for special occasions, to redesign an old piece or for something new and different. She uses independent Award winning stone cutters, buying the “best quality” gems and “stands behind everything,” she said. After meeting with customers to discuss their jewelry needs and preferences (“I don’t talk about my style — we
Colorful, silly-face pencil toppers in Susan Marie Phipps’ studio show her whimsical, humorous side, but when it comes to jewelry, she is serious about her craft, patiently showing me the two processes she uses to make her jewelry. For curvy pieces, she uses the lost wax casting process and carves a piece of wax freehand into ring, pendant or earring shapes, which are later encased in plaster and heated. The wax melts, leaving an impression in the plaster, which is then injected with gold. She creates other pieces using hand fabrication by soldering pieces of gold or platinum together. Each piece can take her from five or six hours to sixty hours for larger or more complex pieces, she said. The process begins when she buys a stone or pearl, which she later decides how to use — “the design is created to complement the stone.” “I don’t do a production line,” she said. “Every piece is one-of-a-kind and I always like challenging myself to come up with new designs.”
Wireless Internet Access!
Susan Marie Designs
4 Biltmore Avenue, downtown Asheville (behind Pack Place)
(828) 277-1272
www.susanmphippsdesigns.com
Tues. - Sat. 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Holiday Hours October - December: Tues. - Sun. 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Delicious (828) 236-9800 Open 7 Days a Week
50 Broadway ~ Asheville, NC
Specialty Pizzas Spring Water Dough Appetizing Salads Fresh-Baked Calzones Hoagies & Pretzels Healthy Ingredients
Vol. 12, No. 2 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — October 2008 33
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R A P I D R I V E R A R T S
On Stage Lake Eden Arts Festival (LEAF) J P Celebrating 27 Festivals!
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by ennifer
EAF introduces you to culturally relevant entertaining acts from around the world that connect you to their specific “root” community and set an inspiring soundtrack for the LEAF weekend.
Highlights • First class “world music” from our own backyard with Robert Earl Keen, Abigail Washburn & The Sparrow Quartet with Bela Fleck, Leon Redbone & more. • Trombone Shorty returns after a stellar Bele Chere concert. • A dazzling performance by Shangri-La Chinese Acrobats on October 20.
Featured Performing Artists Vieux Farka Toure, Donna The Buffalo, The Shangri-La Chinese Acrobats, Bettye LaVette, The Legendary JCs, Terrance Simien & the Zydeco Experience, Spiritual Rez, Ben Sollee, Pistolera, Harper (Australian), Dendê & Hãhãhães (Brazil), Chirgilchin (Tuva), Magic of African Rhythm, Billy Jonas & many more. Schedule and full listing at www.theleaf. com/performers.
LEAF Stands Out Amongst Festivals LEAF is set apart from other festivals by the resplendent beauty of its location, dedication to community outreach, and bringing together family and friends all generations. LEAF highlights its global music line-up with over 50 cultural genres to discover, however, the artistic and outdoor offerings of the festival is what truly makes it unforgettable. Come discover over 40 Healing Arts Workshops such as yoga and Tai Chi, folk art, juried handcrafts, a national $1000 Poetry SLAM, camping, an adventurous zipline, canoes, kayaks, and swimming, talent contest, fiddle contest, drum circles, over 30 performers and wacky games in the Kids Village including kids bedtime stories, jam sessions, gourmet food and more! LEAF is going greener with a solar stage and seven star resource recovery services. May’s 2008 festival composted and recycled the weight of a large elephant. LEAF also connects to its historic creative past with Black Mountain College Tours.
Leaf’s Commitment to Outreach is Growing Locally and Globally LEAF’s outreach efforts are two-fold, including LEAF in Schools & Streets with our local community and LEAF International with our global community. LEAF in Schools & Streets has resident teaching artists, as well as visiting artists from around the world, working to empower our youth through music and arts. 34 October 2008
— Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — Vol. 12, No. 2
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LEAF International has programs in Panama, Guatemala, Rwanda, Bequia, and Mexico teaching music to hundreds of indigenous youth weekly. Recently LEAF has been expanding its collaborative work with organizations such as Children First, Handmade in America, Asheville Area Arts Council, Asheville City’s Cultural Arts Department, and more. Globally we are forging partnerships with the Jane Goodall Institute’s Roots & Shoots program, Asheville Sister Cities, and more. For more information about these enriching and powerful programs please contact outreach@LakeEdenArtsFestival.org.
LEAF in Schools & Streets Expands its Outreach LEAF in Schools and Streets’ (LSS) mission is empowering youth through festive arts, and has reached over 13,000 Buncombe county area youth in just 4 years through music and arts residencies, workshops, after-school programs, and enrichment programs. After completing their programs, the children get to perform on stage at LEAF — alongside global artists — for an enthusiastic audience that includes their parents and members of the local, national, and international community. “In the few weeks that my students practiced before the festival, I saw the pride and joy they found in dancing to their own beat. They displayed a confidence that I rarely see… They felt special, talented, and connected with their past.”
~ Jessica Potter,
Latino Mentoring Program - CARING for Children LEAF is a non-profit organization established to build community and enrich lives through the Arts – locally & globally – with festivals, events, mentoring, and educational programs.
If you go Lake Eden Arts Festival (LEAF) Celebrating 27 Festivals! October 17-19 at Camp Rockmont in Black Mountain, NC. Tickets: (828) 68-MUSIC (686-8742) or www.LakeEdenArtsFestival.org Early discounted tickets available. Advance ticket purchase required. Special youth prices. Under 10 admitted FREE! Day tickets $24-35. Weekend camping passes $105-135. Special Community Pass (locals, no overnight) $69-85. Lake Eden Arts Festival, 377 Lake Eden Road, Black Mountain, NC 28711
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FINE ART The 61st Annual Craft Fair of the A Southern Highlands by
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elebrate autumn in the Western North Carolina mountains by attending the Fall Edition of the 61st Annual Craft Fair of the Southern Highlands, October 16-19 at the Asheville Civic Center. The Fair showcases the work of members of the Southern Highland Craft Guild and features craft demonstrations, regional music and entertainment. Over 200 craftspeople fill the two levels of the Civic Center selling handmade objects in the following categories: clay, fiber, glass, leather, manmade materials, metal, mixed media, natural materials, paper, wood and jewelry. As members of the Southern Highland Craft Guild, the exhibitors live and work in the mountain counties of nine states from Maryland to Alabama. To become a member, the artists have passed a rigorous jury process and their work represents the finest in their field. The Fairs showcase a rich diversity of traditional and contemporary crafts. As a destination for fine American craft, locals and visitors can find crafts at numerous galleries in Asheville. The Fair is unique in that it offers people the opportunity to connect with artists by purchasing directly from them. The community this fosters is important to craftspeople and patrons alike. In an age of mass production and imports, the connection to fine American craft and the individual maker is more relevant than ever. Since 1948, the Craft Fairs have helped the Southern Highland Craft Guild fulfill its mission to bring together the crafts and craftspeople of the mountains for the benefit of shared resources, education, marketing and conservation. Historically, eleven thousand people visit the Fair over the course of four days. Their patronage is an investment in the regional economy and the future of Appalachian crafts. In addition to fine crafts, local musicians play live on the arena stage during the Fair. A great variety of acts will share their expertise in old time, bluegrass, American swing grass and classic honkytonk. The educational demonstrations for the fall edition of the Fair will celebrate Southern Appalachian heritage crafts through natural dyeing, blacksmithing, wood carving, whittling, and the making of white oak baskets. There will also be a sheep to shawl exhibition in which the finished shawl will be raffled off on Sunday afternoon. The Craft Fair takes place in downtown Asheville, nestled among the Blue Ridge Mountains. Visitors to the Craft Fair are sure to enjoy Asheville’s architectural charm and eclectic restaurants, all against a backdrop of beautiful fall color. The Fairs offer a connection to the Blue Ridge, its cultural heritage and its promising future. For more information call (828) 2987928 or visit www.craftguild.org.
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Vessel by Jim and Shirl Parmentier
Above: Works by Scott Summerfield Top: Mary Nichols (pictured) and Carol Gutman will host a sheep to shawl demonstration. The shawl will be raffled off on Sunday afternoon. Photo by Stewart Stokes
Craft Fair Demonstrations – October 16-19 In addition to scheduled demonstrations, many exhibitors choose to share their process by working in their booth. Throughout the show visitors will have the opportunity to observe works by over 200 members of the Southern Highland Craft Guild and to learn about natural dyeing and blacksmithing, weaving, basket making, and other fine American craft techniques.
If you go The 61st Annual Craft Fair of the Southern Highlands October 16-19. Asheville Civic Center, 87 Haywood Street, downtown Asheville, NC. Hours: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Thursday Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. Admission: Adults $6, children under 12 free. Group discounts are available. For additional information visit www. craftguild.org or phone (828) 298-7928. Vol. 12, No. 2 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — October 2008 35
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WHAT TO DO GUIDE ™ Friday, October 3
Opening Reception
5:30 p.m. Appalachian Pastel Society’s third annual juried exhibit, sponsored by the Arts Council of Henderson County, 538 N Main St., 2nd Floor. (828) 693-8504. Show runs through November 22. Friday, October 3
Studio Tour, Party & Auction
Charter school ARTSPACE and East of Asheville studio tour preview party and auction. 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Artspace, 2030 Hwy. 70, Swannanoa, NC. (828) 298-2787, www.e-a-s-t.info. Friday, October 3
Downtown Art Walk
Gallery Minerva will be featuring Eleanor Miller abstract painter “Botanical II” Michelle Miller and landscape painter Eleanor Miller. Meet the art-
How to place an event/ classified listing with Rapid River Art Magazine Any “free” event open to the public can be listed at no charge up to 30 words. For all other events there is a $9.95 charge up to 30 words and 10 cents for each additional word. 160 word limit per event. Sponsored listings (shown in boxes) can be purchased for $12 per column inch. Deadline is the 19th of each month. Payment must be made prior to printing. Email Beth Gossett at: ads@rapidrivermagazine.com or mail to: 85 N. Main St, Canton, NC 28716. Or Call: (828) 6460071 to place ad over the phone.
– Disclaimer – Due to the overwhelming number of local event submissions we get for our “What to Do Guide” each month, we can no longer accept entries that do not specifically follow our publication’s format. Non-paid event listings must be 30 words or less and both paid and non-paid listings must provide information in the following format: date, time, brief description of what your event is and any contact information. Any entries not following this format will not be considered for publication.
ists and see new work by both. 12 Church Street, downtown Asheville. www.galleryminerva. com. Call (828) 255.8850, or visit www.galleryminerva.com. Sunday, October 5
Bravo’s “Arts in the Garden”
Performances by local school-age musicians, refreshments, silent auction, 4 to 6:30 p.m., B.B. Barns, 3377 Sweeten Creek Road, Asheville. $25/ticket or $40/ couple, tickets available online at www.bbbarns.com or in person at the B.B. Barns Garden Center. Sunday, October 5
Chamber Music Concert
There will be a concert of chamber music featuring the piano with strings and winds at 3 p.m. at St. Matthias Church in Asheville. The program will include a Theme and Variations for Flute and String Quartet by Ron Lambe. There is no fixed charge for the concert, but donations will be accepted for the restoration of the beautiful and historic church. St. Matthias’ Church is over 100 years old and is on the national historic register. The church is located in Asheville just off South Charlotte Street at Max Street on the hill across from the Asheville Public Works Building (1 Dundee St.). Friday, October 10
The Blue Ridge Orchestra Fall Masterworks Concert
“A Night at the Opera II” featuring William Martin, Tenor, 8 p.m. at the Diana Wortham Theatre. The program will include favorite operatic arias by Puccini, Leoncavallo, Gounod, Wagner, Massenet, and Verdi. The orchestra will play celebrated opera overtures by Wagner, Verdi, Rossini and Offenbach. Ticket prices are $20 for adults, $10 for students. Tickets available at the Diana Wortham Theatre. For more information, visit www.blueridgeorchestra.org. Saturday, October 11
WNC Nature Center’s Annual Hey Day Event
From 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Western North Carolina Nature Center, 75 Gashes Creek Road
Art Classes October 11 & 12: Landscape, Painting with Color October 25 & 26: Composition Fundamentals Painting classes for adults with all levels of experience are taught each month by Fleta Monaghan. River’s Edge Studio is located in the river arts district of Asheville at 191 Lyman St., #310. Call (828) 776-2716 or email fleta@fletamonaghan.com for more information. Go to www.fletamonaghan.com for a complete class schedule. in east Asheville. Admission is $8 for adults, $5 for children, and FREE to Members of Friends of the Nature Center. Scrumptious food will be available at the Classroom Café onsite, so families can spend the whole day! Adult volunteers needed, call (88) 298-5600 ext. 308. Saturday, October 11
Auditions for A Christmas Carol
The Montford Park Players, North Carolina’s Longest Running Shakespeare Festival, will hold auditions for the 32nd Annual presentation of A Christmas Carol from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Montford Community Center, 34 Pearson Drive, Asheville. Please bring headshots and
resumes if available. Prepared monologues are not required. For additional audition times only, email carol@montfordparkplayers.org. For more information call (828) 254-5146 or visit www.montfordparkplayers.org. A Christmas Carol will be performed Friday through Sunday, December 5 - 7, at Asheville Community Theatre. Saturday, October 11
Doc Watson & David Holt
Two superstars of American folk: legendary performer Doc Watson and Grammy-winning musician and folklorist David Holt. Mainstage Special Attractions Series, Diana Wortham Theatre at Pack Place, 3 p.m. and 8 p.m. Regular $45; Senior $43; Student $40; Student Rush day-of-the-show $10 (with valid I.D.) Tickets/ Info: (828) 257-4530 or online at www.dwtheatre.com. October 11 & 12
3rd Annual Spruce Pine Potters Market
30 of Mitchell & Yancey County’s favorite clay artists will be showing and selling their work from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Cross Street Building, 31 Cross Street, Spruce Pine, NC. Visit www. sprucepinepottersmarket.com for more information, or call Terry Gess at (828) 688-3863. October 11 & 12
Open Studio Tour
Various artists studios will be open to the public on Saturday
1st Annual Carved Jack-O-Lantern Contest Bring your carved up, spooky or happy pumpkins to Earth Fare (Westgate Shopping Center), or Earth Fare (South Asheville), on Saturday, October 11, 2008 between 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. for a chance to win a Thanksgiving feast. All entries will be numbered and photographed and posted in the respective store. Customers will have until October 23 to vote on their favorite. The winners will be announced during each stores’ Healthy Trick or Treat event on Saturday, October 25 at 2 p.m. Contestants must be present to win. One winner from each store will be selected to receive a Thanksgiving dinner package that includes a 10-12 lb. natural cooked turkey, all natural stuffing, dinner rolls, cranberry relish, gravy, pumpkin pie and apple pie. The prizes will be available to the winners on their day of choice during the week of Thanksgiving. For more information, contact Janice Husk, (828) 210-0100 (South Asheville) or Erica Fadley, (828) 253-7656 (Westgate).
from 10 to 5 and Sunday from 12 to 5. Maps can be picked up at the Arts Council of Henderson County, 538 N Main 2nd Floor. (828) 693-8504. Saturday, October 11 & Sunday October 12
Folk Harp Trade Show & Workshop
The largest gathering of harp makers in the Southeast. Stunning therapy harps, Celtic harps, electric harps, and historic harps, for sale, plus accessories and music. Free admission. Saturday 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Sunday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. A harp workshop will be held on Sunday, October 12 from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Lutheridge Retreat Center, near the Asheville airport. Visit www. southeasternharps.com or phone (828) 398-0732. October 24-26
Southeastern Animal Fiber Fair
Friday & Saturday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Sunday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. WNC Agricultural Center, Fletcher, NC (across from Airport Exit 40 off I-26). $3 per person. Fiber animals, workshops, demonstrations, vendors. Educational & Fun! www.saffsite.org or contact Teri Gabric (864) 468-4220. Saturday, October 25
Kids & Tweens Benefit Concert
Diana Wortham Theatre, 3 to 5 p.m. Admission: $10. Presented by Evergreen Community Charter School and Colburn Earth Science Museum including performances by Secret Agent 23 Skidoo, Skinny Legs & All, and Evergreen’s own EMBE Marimba Band, celebrating their second CD release. Sunday, October 26
Chili-ing Out on the Lake
The Arts Council of Henderson County announces a benefit outdoor afternoon from 4 – 7 p.m. at the Highland Lake Resort. Activities will feature boating, live music, a variety of chili dishes, a cornbread competition with cash prize, a cash bar, hot cider, dessert and fun! Reservations can be made by calling (828) 693-8504. Tickets are $30 per person.
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R A P I D R I V E R A R T S
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WHAT TO DO GUIDE ™ Every Thursday
New Evening Pottery Class at the Armory
The Waynesville Parks and Recreation Department will offer a new pottery class at the Old Armory Recreation Center. The class will take place on Thursdays from 5:30 t 8:30 p.m. beginning October 2. The cost is $65 for a six week class. All tools are supplied. No experience is necessary and all levels are welcome. Also, a day pottery class is offered on Mondays and Thursdays from 1 to 4 p.m. For more information call the Old Armory Recreation Center at 456-9207 or email oldarmory@townofwaynesville.org Every Thursday, Friday, & Saturday
Music at The Green Sage
The Green Sage Coffeehouse and Café is a great new venue where one can enjoy a cup of fair trade coffee or organic beer and munch on some organic/local food while listening to some fantastic music. Folk, blues, bluegrass and more. Free! 7 to 9 p.m. on Thursdays and 8 to 10 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. 5 Broadway Street in Asheville. (828) 252-4450 or visit www.thegreensage.net, or www. myspace.com/thegreensagecoffeehouse.
Functional Art and Craft Classes Create recycled art, Paint fabric and furniture, Make unique and affordable, useful gifts for holidays and special occasions. These classes are designed to assist you in having fun while exploring your creativity. Tuesday, 5 p.m. to 7p.m., or Thursday 10 a.m. to 12 noon. Fall series: October 7 - November 13. Holiday series: November 18 - December 18 Adult classes with Concha Wilkinson, professional artist for more than 25 years. (828) 273-1375, or cheartsong@ yahoo.com
Best in Show
The Jonathan Scales Fourchestra The Jonathan Scales Fourchestra – This virtuoso steel drum player is sure to keep you inspired throughout the evening with his modern, multifaceted compositions. Mixing a traditional Caribbean instrument with a contemporary jazz attitude, Jonathan Scales’ music pushes the steel pan into the realms of funk, rock, and even bluegrass while still digging into the roots of traditional world sounds such as reggae and Latin. The opening act for the night’s entertainment will be the Vertigo Jazz Project. Jazz, Latin, Groove, Funk, World – a melting pot of all the great music in the last century. VJP has developed their own style and own sound. It’s truly original, refreshing and meaningful. Thursday, October 16 9 p.m. 21+, $4, at Bobo Gallery, 22 N. Lexington Ave. Visit www.bobogallery.com Thursday, October 30 9 p.m. at Preservation Pub
by Phil Juliano
Flat Rock Tailgate Market Thursday, October 30 from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Class will begin on Tuesday, October 14 from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. for six weeks. This intermediate jewelry class will incorporate various silversmithing techniques while designing and making beads out of sterling silver. Each bead will be unique and can be used together as bracelets and necklaces or individually as earrings and pendants. Molly Sharp has been working in metals for over 30 years and owns Hand in Hand Gallery with her husband, potter David Voorhees. Sharp is a member of the Southern Highland Craft Guild in Asheville, NC. For more information or to sign up for classes, contact Tryon Arts & Crafts at (828) 859-8323 or www.tryonartsandcrafts.org.
Flat Rock Music Saturday, October 4, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. 2nd Annual Art and Wine Festival. Benefiting Flat Rock YouTheater. Over 30 vendors!
Friday, October 10, 9 p.m. Rose Fraser - Vocals, acoustic guitar, $5 cover. Corgi Tales
by Phil Hawkins
Saturday, October 11, 9 p.m. Pond Water Experiment – Funky, multi-colored, experimental reggae, bluegrass, funk, blues, jazz, and world fusion. $5 cover. Thursday, October 16, 8 p.m. Jeff Michels’ songs portray both problems and solutions for a pessimistic world.
Harvest Festival Come help celebrate fall and purchase the final bounties of the earth along with a wide variety of baked goods. Vendors will join in the spirit with costumes and special offerings of the season. Produce, fish, honey, eggs, jams, mustard, lamb, and cheese, tasty homemade treats. Bring the kids and join us in a special scarecrow making event.
Making Many Marvelous Metal Beads with Molly Sharp
Thursday, October 9, 9 p.m. Atomic Sauce – Jazz, blues, and progressive rock – exciting compositions. $5 cover.
Cloth Fiber Workshops
Miniature Landscapes, Cloth Books, Shibori & Tie-Dye, and more. 51 Thompson St., Suite D. For class schedule and registration information, visit www. clothfiberworkshop.com, or call (828) 505-2958.
Classes Offered at Tryon Arts & Crafts
Friday, October 17, 9 p.m. Jazz the Ripper – Original, new and unique jazz/funk fusion sound. $5 cover.
Callie & Cats
by Amy Downs
Saturday, October 18, 9 p.m. Dan Farmer – His music is smooth and full of imagery. $5 cover. Thursday, October 23, 8 p.m. Local Jazz Singer Showcase Friday, October 31, 9 p.m. Conciously Sedated – These local boys will encourage you to dance the night away, $5. Held on Little Rainbow Row’s back deck Behind the shops, corner of Greenville Hwy. and West Blue Ridge Rd.
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R A P I D R I V E R A R T S ‘African Geranium’ continued from pg. 15
The chief chemical found in the oil usually produced by the leaves is geraniol a compound that possesses strong bactericidal properties and is still used by the pharmaceutical industry. Obtaining this essence requires one ton of green to produce two and a half pounds of essence. When Margaret Bayard Smith, a Washington friend, wrote to Thomas Jefferson with a request for a geranium cutting that she spied growing in a White House window she said that upon his retirement
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to Monticello the plant would be “watered with the tears of regret.” Thus the plants blooming in pots and gardens around Western North Carolina have a great history behind them. And remember, they are perennials and if kept from freezing will overwinter to glory in the gardens of 2009. Peter Loewer is a well-known writer and botanical artist who has written and illustrated over twenty-five books on natural history over the past thirty years.
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Noteworthy Fast Frame Owners Offer an Artist’s Eye and a Personal Touch
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fter traveling by Pam J. Hecht around the country, and the world, In fact, she has Maggie Graham a wildlife rehabilitaand Bob Brown tion permit and once have landed in worked at a wildlife Asheville, spending most center in Florida, of their days happily feeding and caring for within the confines of injured baby squirrels Fast Frame, an art framing and birds. store and gallery. “I’ve always been When you enter the an animal lover, like my store and the bell sounds, father,” said Maggie. Maggie comes right out to “I also had an uncle in greet you, eager to share show business as an her firsthand knowledge animal trainer, who of art and the intricacies of inspired me.” framing. Meanwhile, cusHusband Bob gives a tomer Mathew Laveter quiet smile from his post, regularly makes the busily constructing frames drive from his North in the back room. Asheville home to the The two are a perfect store in the Biltmore match, well-suited to the Forest area to have his framing business: Bob is prints framed. an engineer and computer “They give me expert with a knack for good prices, do fanwoodworking and model tastic work and always Maggie Graham with airplanes while Maggie, take care of me,” he two baby squirrels. who also worked in the explained, stooping computer industry, is an Top: Oil painting of Bilfred, down to pet one of the artist — a painter with one of the resident birds store owners’ peaceful Maggie took care of at the a keen eye for color and dachshunds. “And I’ve Wild Life Center. design, who knows how to become a dog lover in handle art. the process.” Nearly two years ago, The couple is “rarely sitting idle,” they bought a Fast Frame franchise and said Maggie. “The framing business was completed an intensive training program to a natural for us,” she said. “It’s fun and I learn the details of business ownership and enjoy helping people with their projects the latest in picture framing technology. — it’s a warm and personal thing for us.” They do all of the framing work in-house (“people who care about their art like that we don’t have to send work out), with 45-50 frames and 80-100 mats Other services include photo printing and in stock, and specialize in custom orders retouching, do-it-yourself matting, glazing, for both individuals and commercial conservation framing, dry-mounting and clients. State-of-the-art equipment, such laminating. as a computerized mat cutter, makes for Bob is skilled at crafting shadowboxes, quick turn-around time, often in a day, and framing for memorabilia, diplomas, and because Fast Frame is a national awards, mirrors, flat screen TVs and artcompany, you’ll find a wide selection of work in nearly any medium. framing materials at reasonable prices. “We’re the most competitive in town,” said Maggie. “And if you’re not comfortable about what we’ve done, you can bring Fast Frame it back and we’ll redo it for free.” 900 Henderson Road Original art by local artists, including Forest Center North Maggie’s pet portraits and animal illustra(828) 274-5176 tions, are available already framed, and a www.fastframeasheville.com variety of high-quality prints, posters and unique decorative designs are free for the Mon.-Fri., 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Sat., 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. price of the framing. Sun. by appointment Also, bring in a photograph and Maggie can create an oil or pastel paint$40 discount for new customers. ing of your pet.
Off-Broadway Comedy “Late Nite Catechism” The Diana Wortham Theatre at Pack Place presents seven performances of the National Off-Broadway Tour of Late Nite Catechism, the riotously funny interactive comedy. Audiences of all faiths and educational backgrounds are taken back to their youth as the irrepressible “Sister” teaches class to a roomful of “students” (the audience). Actor Kimberly Richards
brings “Sister” to life through a mix of quick-witted improvisation within the written work of playwrights Maripat Donovan and Vicki Quade.
If you go Diana Wortham Theatre at Pack Place, October 28 – November 2, 2008 Tickets are $25-$35 depending on show date/time. Discounts for seniors, students, and groups of 10 or more. Box Office (828) 257-4530, or visit www.dwtheatre.com
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